Jp's Movies and Music

Top 10 Episodes of TV Ever

2006-04-01T15:09:00.000-05:00

This is a post I am doing just for fun. Doing this for real would probably take me a month to narrow it all down, but having said that, this list is pretty serious (minus 1 pick). These really are my favorite episodes, and, for the most part, are the reasons that i watch these shows. I'll try not to spoil anything with a brief description of each.

10. Salute Your Shorts - Episode 23 - "Capture the Flag"

I used to love this show and this was best episode. The campers find themselves in a huge, camp-wide, game of capture the flag. Hilarity ensues.

9. Nip/Tuck - Season 2 Finale - "Joan Rivers"

Despite the name of the episode having truth to it (Joan Rivers is the main patient), this is an amazing episode of this highly addictive show. It involves all the great elements of this show including an amazing ending revolving around the Carver/

8. Entourage - Season 1, Episode 6 - "Busey and the Beach"

Not only the funniest episode of this show, but it also includes one of the greatest speeches in TV history, given by Jeremy Piven as Ari.

7. Arrested Development - "Motherboy XXX"

This episode is just fucking hilarious. It might be the hardest I have ever laughed at a tv show. This is the reason Arrested should still be on tv, but unfortunately, it will never be again. RIP

6. LOST - Season 2, Episode 1 - "Man of Science, Man of Faith"

The second season kicked off with a bang. Great acting and a good twist. Great episode.

5. Family Guy - Pilot

This episode is amazingly funny and daring. Yes, the show has gotten bold, but without the guts it took to make this episode first shows why Family Guy is a ground breaking show.

4. Scrubs - Season 1, Episode 4 - "My Old Lady"

This episode is amazing. This is what got me into Scrubs. The mix of humor and serious issues is why I love Scrubs and this episode has it all.

3. The Shield - Season 5, Episode 10 - "Of Mice and Lem"

This episode blew me away. I love this show and will be sad when it ends. All of the elements of good Shield are here, along with an ass kicing montage at the end to some great music. Killer episode.

2. The Shield - Pilot

The main reason this beat out the other shield episode is because it was just as amazing, but it was also the first ever episode. Talk about getting someone into the show right away. When I saw this episode, it was def. the best episode of tv I have ever seen. Pick up season 1 of dvd and this episode will make you a shield fan for life.

1. Scrubs - Season 3, Episode 14 - "My Screwup"

The best episode of television ever. I don't want to say much other than the performances are all amazing and every aspect of this show shines in this episode. Please try to get your hands on this episode somehow, hell ask me, and I'll send it to you, because, Scrubs fan or not, you will love this episode.

there you have it. I wasted some time today

Top 10 Movies of 2005

2005-12-31T12:14:00.000-05:00

As 2005 comes to an end, I think about what a great year it was for me, probably one of the best of my life. It also turned out to be one of the worst years in recent history when it came to box office sales and no one could seem to pinpoint the reason why. Most people blamed it on a lack of good movies, no creativity in Hollywood if you will. This is where they were wrong. True, most theatres may not get a lot of the independent movies out there, but with a little effort and a website or two offering some opinions on what to see, there is plenty of good stuff out there to see. While people claim they could barely make a top 5, I too was thinking, "Man, I don't know if I can even do a top ten." That was, of course, until I went back and recalled all the movies I had seen this year. Then I couldn''t stop listing movies that could make the top 10. In the end, I had about 18 nominees that were eventually narrowed down to this top 10 list. It's always tough (that's why I'll put some non-top 10 movies that deserve recognition afterwards) but it had to be done. Anyway...to help usher in the New Year...Here is my top 10 movies of 2005:

#10 - Elizabethtown

Director: Cameron Crowe

I'll just be honest. If Cameron Crowe put out a movie every year, it would probably make my list. E-town saw a harsh reaction from critics and a dismal showing at the box office, but what people don't remember is that Almost Famous did about just the same in its box office run and now look how many people love it. The thing that I love about Crowe movies is that they are true. Its simple, but it is important. The dialogue and stories just feel real. They could happen to anyone and anytime, in any place. I'm not really a fan of Orlando Bloom and I thought he shined in this role. A beautyiful music selection(one of the best soundtracks of the year) tops off yet another great movie by Cameron Crowe. If you didn't like it, maybe give it a second chance, because its movies like these that have a lasting effect in the years to come.

#9 - Imaginary Heroes

Director: Dan Harris

Although this movie was first released in late December 2004, it was very limited and didn't even have a New York and L.A. release until 2005. Its weird, because this movie is almost like putting a straight to DVD release into the top 10, but let me tell you, it is worth the watch. This movie is performance driven with Sigourney Weaver giving one of her best performances in a long line of great roles. It also features one of the most underrated actors in Hollywood today. Jeff Daniels. He is amazing in this role and steals the show as only a supporting actor. This movie also showcases a young actor that I think will only get better with his years, Emile Hirsch. Rent this movie, its worth it.

#8 - Sin City

Directors: Robert Rodriguez, Frank Millar

Despite my distaste in the over use of cgi in Hollywood today, I think this movie used it well and pulled off something completely new and inventive. Robert Rodriguez is a movie making machine and if he churns out more movies like this, at least theatres will have something entertaining to watch. Clive Owen shells out yet another great performance in this action packed comic-adaptation.

#7 - Munich

Director: Steven Spielberg

So, I fit this one in at the last minute, rushing out to see it before the new year in hopes that it would make the list, and it certainly did. Spielberg is back at his best with this film, starring Eric Bana and Geoffrey Rush. The one thing I noticed about the film is that it is shot digitally(probably for the fact that Spielberg wanted it shot, edited, and released in about 4 months time), but it doesn't look like the change-over hindered Steven a bit. The use of camera is brilliant and most of the movie looks gorgeous. Solid performances from all the leads carry this movie throughout, but don't get me wrong, there's some great action and suspense in there as well.

#6 - Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Director: Mike Newell

First things first, let me say that I was never a Harry Potter fan. I never read the books, and I only saw the first film. I ended up watching all of them so that this one would make sense and they turned out to be decent movies. Then I saw Goblet. It made the other Potter films look like a joke. The movie takes ahold of you from the opening shot and keeps you there until the end of the film. Let's face it though, the strongest part of this movie (and all of the Potter's for that matter) is Emma Watson as Hermione. This young actress carries her co-stars throughout and even almost brought a tear to my eye after the ball, when she yells at Ron. If the movies continue to be as good as this one was, I will be there to see each and every one of them.

#5 - Cinderella Man

Director: Ron Howard

Ron Howard is a beast. Plain and simple. The man just makes amazing films. This one is no exception. Russel Crowe delivers a blovkbuster performance that was accented by the performance of his co-star Renee Zellweger (who I normally despise). The tale hits you right in the heart, so much so that even though you probably can figure out what is going to happen, you still hope endlessly for it throughout the entire film. Lastly, I'm sincerely hoping that this movie finally brings a statue home to Paul Giamatti, who shines as Crowe's trainer/manager. This movie just makes you feel good.

#4 - Batman Begins

Director: Christopher Nolan

This was the Batman movie that I have been waiting for. What Tim Burton did with the first two was a true accomplishment, but finally someone has brought truth to the character of the Dark Knight. Maybe it is just because I love origin stories, but I really feel as tough this movie takes ahold of everyone's interests and keeps them on the edge of the seat the whole time. David Goyer brings the detective to life in a script that stays so true to the comics, while adding new tidbits along the way. This was just a great film for comic lovers and action lovers alike.

#3 - Walk The Line

Director: James Mangold

And the award for Best Actor goes to.......
Joaquin Phoenix for this amazing performance of the legendary Johnny Cash. From the intricate details of learning Cash's voice patterns, not only for one portion of his life, but the changes throughout, to the time it must have taken Phoenix to learn how to play guitar from scratch, his dedication to this role shows through and through. This really put Joaquin on a whole new level for me. Reese Witherspoon does a fantastic job as well. No one should go without seeing this movie.

#2 - King Kong

Director: Peter Jackson

Wow. This movie did not let me down. I mentioned it before, but I have a big problem accepting the fact that CGI has become a dominant force in the movie making industry. I gave endless amounts of scrutiny to Peter Jackson for going overboard on cgi for the LOTR movies. I think i made a mistake. As much as I would still be angry if actors began being replaced by cgi recreations of people, the kind of cgi that is in LOTR and King Kong is now something I am willing to accept and love. You know why? Because in a world where movies might become a dying art form, I will allow Peter Jackson to make any movie he wants if this is how he is going to do it. King Kong made me feel like a kid again. Maybe it was, in fact, Jackson's childhood love of Kong that made this movie so great, his refusal of anything that might be less than perfect, but to me it just seems that everyone involved had one goal with making this movie. They wanted to make a movie, that no matter how old or young you were, whether or not you liked action, comedy or drama, or simply whether or not you even like movies at all, it would be something you could enjoy. This movie is the reason people go to see movies. This movie is the reason I want to make movies. Peter Jackson, I'm sorry I ever doubted you.

#1 - Crash

Director: Paul Haggis

After having just said all of that about King Kong, you are probably asking, "How was that only #2?". Well, as good as Kong is, it lacks something that Paul Haggis has to offer with this directorial debut. Crash makes you think. While making you laugh, gasp, cry, and anything else, Crash makes you think. This is why I wish more theatres got independent films. So that the general public could experience movies like this. Movies that, no matter how unknown you are, the power of your script evokes a response from such big name players in Hollywood, that they ASK YOU to be in your movies. It has been a long time since a movie hit me so hard on an emotional level. At least twice in this film, I found that I didn't breathe for about 2 minutes because I was so engrossed in the scene. That takes great filmmaking to pull off. Its funny that something you didn't even see coming could land right in the #1 spot, but maybe it is better that way.

Happy New Year to all. See in 2006

#1 Most Anticipated Movie of 2006

2005-12-30T12:55:00.000-05:00

#1 - Superman Returns

Director: Brian Synger

Who: Brandon Routh, Kate Bosworth, Kevin Spacey

What: Superhero Adventure

When: Summer

The Hype: Brian Synger is not only responsible for one of the greatest comic movies of all time (X2) but he might have made one of the best movies of all time period (The Usual Suspects). He left the X-Men franchise to turn to this project, the next Superman movie, and all signs point to amazing. I really think, out of everyone directing today, Brian Synger will be the name you toss around in years to come, like we do today with George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, and Martin Scorcese. This movie will own.

#2 Most Anticipated Movie of 2006

2005-12-30T01:06:00.000-05:00

#2 - Southland Tales

Director: Richard Kelly

Who: Sarah Michelle Gellar, The Rock, Sean William Scoot, Mandy Moore, Holmes Osbourne, Cheri Oteri, Jon Lovitz, Janeane Garafalo

What: Drama/ Sci-Fi/ Thriller

When: Fall

The Hype: The second effort from the man who wrote and directed my favorite movie of all time, Donnie Darko. Sean William Scott read the script for Southland Lands Tales about 6 times and still claims he can't figure out what it is about. I love it already.

#3 Most Anticipated Movie of 2006

2005-12-28T22:02:00.000-05:00

#3 - Lady In The Water

Director: M. Night Shyamalan

Who: Bryce Dallas Howard, Paul Giamatti

What: Fantasy/Thriller

When: July

The Hype: Well, most probably know that the reason I am siked for this one, besides the fact that I love all of Night's movies, is that I worked on this film. Its gonna be different, so don't necessarily get your hopes up, but after reading the script I think it'll be awesome.

#4 Most Anticipated Movie of 2006

2005-12-26T21:30:00.000-05:00

#4 - Zodiac

Driector: David Fincher

Who: Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr, Mark Ruffalo

What: Crime Thriller

When: Fall

The Hype: Alright, so David Fincher is back to what he does best. Crime Thriller. Se7en is one of the greatest thrillers in movie history and here David Fincher is back to the genre. This time, a story about the famous "Zodiac Killer" of San Fransico fame. What makes me excited about this movie? Maybe its Jake Gyllenhaal stating in an interview that people on the crew were getting sicck during filming because of how grotesque the scenes were and how realistic Fincher made them. Thats good enough for me.

#5 Most Anticipated Movie of 2006

2005-12-24T19:30:00.000-05:00

#5 - Hostel

Director: Eli Roth (yes him, not Quentin Tarantino)

Who: Jay Hernandez

What: Horror

When: Janurary 6th

The Hype: Ok, so his first movie was made fun of by a lot of people, but I personally liked Cabin Fever a lot. Why? Because it showed me that Eli Roth was really a true fan of the horror genre. Hostel is his second effort, his first with a good budget and a little help from a friend. That friend? Quentin Tarantino. After reading the script QT decided to lend a hand and re-wrote a few scenes and helped produce the movie. Hostel looks scary as hell and is being hyped as one of the most grotesque american horror films in recent history. This movie is going to be messed up and that is why I am super pumped for it.

#6 Most Anticipated Movie Of 2006

2005-12-23T02:07:00.000-05:00

#6 - V For Vendetta

Director: James McTeigue

Who: Natalie Portman

What: Comic Thriller, Political Intrigue

When: March 17

The Hype: The Bros. Wachowski who brought us the first Martix (sadly the second two as well) move on to make what looks to be the first really good adaptation of a Allan Moore graphic novel. Pushed back to March because of its controversial material, this one looks like its gonna dominate. Plus its got my future wife. How could you go wrong?

#7 Most Anticipated Movie of 2006

2005-12-22T08:23:00.000-05:00

#7 - The Departed

Director: Martin Scorcese

Who: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jack Nicholson, Matt Damon, Alec Baldwin, Anthony Anderson, Martin Sheen

What: Crime Thriller

When: Fall

The Hype: Martin Scorcese is back with his new, Leo, yet again. This time he brings yet another stellar cast with him in this remake of Infernal Affairs, a runaway sensation from the Hong Kong film industry that was only released there in 2002. The story? Cop goes undercover in the mob while a mobster goes under cover with the cops. Then they find out about eachother. Chaos ensues in the fall of next year.

#8 Most Anticipated Movie of 2006

2005-12-20T20:08:00.000-05:00

#8 - "The Da Vinci Code"

Director: Ron Howard

Who: Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Paul Bettney, Jean Reno, Ian McKellen, Alfred Molina

What: Crime/Drama/ Mystery

When: May

The Hype: Ummm....hello? This book owned the New York Times best seller list for like 2 years (maybe more, I don't even really know). Take that, add legendary director Ron Howard (Ransom, Beautiful Mind, Apollo 13) and let him line up that all-star cast. This should turn out to be quiet the movie, for those who have and those who have not read the book.

#9 Most Anticipated Movie of 2006

2005-12-19T20:47:00.000-05:00

#9 - Pirates of the Caribbean II: Dead Man's Chest

Director: Gore Verbinski

Who: Johnny Depp, Keira Knightley, Orlando Bloom

What: Action, Adventure

When: July

The Hype: Gore Verbinski returned to direct this and the third installment (filming at the same time) and got all of the main characters to return. Johnny Depp doesn't look like a day went by between the filming of Black Pearl and this sequel. The eerie trailer also throws the comedic side at us, as well as a new bad guy, made-from-things-of-the-sea Davey Jones. What more do you need?

#10 Most Anticipated Movie of 2006

2005-12-18T23:54:00.000-05:00

#10 - Inside Man

Director: Spike Lee

Who: Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, Jodie Foster, Willem Defoe

What: Crime Thriller

When: May

The Hype: This new Spike Lee joint sports a powerhouse cast and what hopes to be a twist on the traditional bank robbery plot. Thrown in a trailer full of bold lines by Clive Owen (one of the best actors to have emerged in recent years) and you get a movie that looks like it can be action packed and intelligent, all at once.

Top 10 Most Anticipated Movies of 2006

2005-12-18T23:49:00.000-05:00

Starting tonight, December 18th, I am going to post my most anticipated movies of 2006. I love doing this list because sometimes you are right, but a lot of the times, the movies turn out to suck. Hopefully these will make 2006 a great movie year.

Before I post #10, I'd like to just do one Runner-Up. I don't usually do this, but I really wanted this movie to make the list and then it didn't. That movie is:

Snakes On A Plane.

Samuel L. Jackson stars in this horror flick about deadly snakes released on a plane. No, I'm not joking. I'm so serious that I can even tell you Jackson threatened to leave the project if they changed the name of the movie like the producers wanted to. Snakes On A Plane hits theatres in the Fall.

Top 20 Songs of the Year

2005-12-14T14:30:00.000-05:00

Alright, here they are. My top 20 songs of the year.

20. "Cupid's Chokehold" - Gym Class Heroes feat. Patrick from Fall Out Boy

19. "When 'You're' Around'" - Motion City Soundtrack

18. "I Was So Alone" - The Rocket Summer

17. "Cotton Crush" - Kevin Devine feat. Jesse Lacey from Brand New

16. "Feel Good Inc." - Gorillaz

15. "Slow Suicide" - JamisonParker

14. "We're So Far Away" - Mae

13. "Part of the Queue" - Oasis

12. "Swing Life Away" - Rise Against

11. "Slow Down" - The Academy Is

10. "Jesusland" - Ben Folds

9. "Welcome Home" - Coheed & Cambria

8. "Polygraph, Right Now!" - The Spill Canvas

7. "The Only Difference Between Martyrdom and Suicide Is Press Coverage" - Panic! At The Disco

6. "Haunt You Everyday" - Weezer

5. "Cut! Print It" - The Starting Line

4. "Emergency" - Paramore

3. "Runaway" - Cartel

2. "Bruised" - Jack's Mannequin

1. "Dance, Dance" - Fall Out Boy

#1 Album of the Year

2005-12-09T19:56:00.000-05:00

#1 - "Everything In Transit" - Jack's Mannequin

Whenever I get worried about what the future music will hold for me, I always feel better knowing a man named Andrew McMahon is alive. I guess that's why I got so upset when he got sick. For those of you who don't know, Jack's Mannequin is the side-project of Something Corporate's lead singer/ piano master Andrew McMahon. Shortly after he finished recording the Jack's album, Andrew was diagnosed with Leukemia. Knowing that somone that is as musically and lyrically talented as he is might not make it until the end of 2005 was really upsetting. Fortunately for me, and music lovers everywhere, Andrew has made a rapid recovery and is even almost back out on the road touring. As for the album...wonderful. The music that Andrew makes is so different from everything out there right now. That's the best part. "Bruised" is one of my favorite songs of the year. The lyrics are so simple yet draw on so many feelings that I, and probably a lot of others, have felt themselves. On "Dark Blue" Andrew uses a catchy piano riff and a beautifully sung chorus to produce a rather stellar song. "Miss Delaney" is a great track that has great lines such as "Now I'm going part time with a film projectionist, she's the vinyl queen from the surfer dream, she likes the Beach Boys more than Radio Head". This line partial explains why Jack's is so good to me. While tons of bands out there are trying to capitalize on other bands styles, Andrew McMahon tries to bring something new to the table. Fortunately for us, he gets to keep doing it, and hopefully for a long time. This album certainly deserves the #1 spot and that's just what it got.

#2 Album of the Year

2005-12-08T20:53:00.000-05:00

#2 - "Live At The Starland Ballroom" - Coheed & Cambria

This is the post that some might call "gay", "bullshit", perhaps even "bush league", but whatever, it's my list, I'll do what I want. The reason I put this cd on the list is because ever since it came out, I barely listen to The Second Stage Turbine Blade and In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth:3. Why? Because Coheed is one of those bands where their live performance is what they are meant to be. They are a band you HAVE to experience live to understand what they are about and with this disc, you can do that whenever you want. The live version of the title track "In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth" blows me away everytime I hear as does the rest of the cd. Call me out on it if you must, but it definately deserves a spot on the list, and it got one. #2

#3 Album of the Year

2005-12-07T13:36:00.000-05:00

#3 - "The Everglow" - Mae

This album certainly hit me out of nowhere. Talk about everything in one package. This album is truely epic. Mae brings everything to the table in this release and holds nothing back. Being a concept album, it immediately pulls you in from start to finish. The cd begins with a piano ballad entitled "We're So Far Away" that is so truely beautiful that it gives me chills. Mae is definately a band that people should check out. You won't be disappointed.

#4 Album! of the Year

2005-12-06T20:58:00.000-05:00

#4 - "A Fever You Can't Sweat Out" - Panic! At The Disco

Wow. This album is amazing. The witty song titles and vocals of a good Fall Out Boy cd, with crazy dance beats added to the mix. What more can you ask for? The first track I heard was "I Write Sins Not Tragedies" and i was hooked. With a chorus of "I Chimed in with a 'haven't you people ever heard of closing the god damn door?' " it just takes hold of you. The second track of the album, "The Only Difference Between Martyrdom and Suicide is Press Coverage" might just be the poppiest, catchiest song that I have ever heard. This album is great. TRL watch out, cause this is the second coming of FOB.

#5 Album of the Year

2005-12-05T17:00:00.000-05:00

#5 - "Good Apollo, I'm Burning Star IV: Volume One: From Fear Through The Eyes of Madness" - Coheed and Cambria

Whew. That took a lot to type. Coheed. What to say about Coheed? They own, and so does this album. When I first Welcome Home, I was set for the fall months knowing the knew coca album was coming out. If you haven't listened to them, you need to give them a try because this band is the definition of creativity. Each member is so musically talented it is unbelievable. This shows in their live performance which is one of the best out there right now. Coheed have slowly been moving up my list of favorite bands, so why wouldn't they make my top 10 albums of the year?

#6 Album of the Year

2005-12-03T21:49:00.000-05:00

#6 - "A Collection of Short Stories" - Houston Calls

I remember the first time I met Tom (and K-Groff for that matter) was outside of Peace of Pizza because Tom commented on one of our t-shirts. He proceeded to tell us he had a band and little did I know that they would go on to put out one of my favorite albums of the year. A.C.O.S.S is a great album filled true to life lyrics and fun times. Along with the ability to put on a an amazing live show makes Houston Calls a band you should seriously check out.

#7 Album of the Year

2005-12-02T12:40:00.000-05:00

#7 - "From Under The Cork Tree" - Fall Out Boy

Way before they started to blow up the TRL charts we got some demos for the new FOB album and I loved them. The album turned out to not be as good as their prior release, but it still has some great tracks and one of the best pop-punk songs in a long time, probably one of my favorite songs of the year (list is coming). "Dance, Dance" is a great song, too bad its TRL gold now and every little kid in america sings it annoyingly. Anyway, a lot of people ended up saying they didn't like this album, but I listed to it way too much to ignore it on this list. So it gets the #7 spot.

#8 Album of the Year

2005-12-01T09:51:00.000-05:00

#8 - "Kingwood" - Millencolin

Millencolin is a band that I didn't get into until I met Steve Vitale. Thank god he played them ALL THE TIME, otherwise, I wouldn't know their power. Their newest release is, without a doubt, one of their best. Catchy riffs and lyric, all in that MIllencolin style. This album just rocks. It was one of the few new releases from an older band that wasn't disappointing this year, not to mention any names COUGH REEL BIG FISH AND GOLDFINGER COUGH. Now I just need to see them live.

#9 Album of the Year

2005-11-29T19:57:00.000-05:00

#9 - "Chroma" - Cartel

Pop-punk at its finest. This album hit me out of nowhere. I haven't heard an album this catchy since, well...since another album on my top 10 list for the year. When I first listened to track 3, "Runaway", I must have listened to it 20 some times ina row. Everyone filming the movie this summer immediately knew who Cartel were, because I wouldn't stop playing the cd. This band is going to be big, and I mean TRL big. Is that a good thing? I don't know, those aren't the types of questions I answer in my top ten posts.

Top 10 Albums of the Year

2005-11-28T20:41:00.000-05:00

Alright, next up on the "End of Year" lists is the list for album of the year. For this list I'm going to do something different. I'm going to post on album a night for 10 days. I'll start this evening with the #10 album of the year.

#10 - "Late Registration" - Kanye West

Most people know that I am pretty much a fan of punk/emo/ rock/ alternative, whatever you want to call it, so it may seem weird to see a rap album on my top 10 for the year, but that's just how good the Kanye West album is. When Donnie first sent it to me, he said that it was amazing, so I figured it would be the same as his last album where I like 2 or 3 tracks, but that was not the case at all. From first to last, minus the skits of course, Late Registration displays tracks that are so original and varied that it is tough not to listen to the album all the way through with each listen. Kanye certainly knows how to sell an album, bringing in guests from all different backgrounds, from Nas to Adam Levine of Maroon 5. If rap isn't your thing, you should still give this album a try, it's worth it...after all, it is my #10 album of 2005

Top 20, Numbers 11-20

2005-11-15T19:53:00.000-05:00

Ok, so it took a little bit, but here are numbers 11-20 of my top 20 movies of all time.

20. Ransom, dir. Ron Howard

Ok, so I joke around about this movie having the best scene in cinema history, but I really do think it is a great film. Ron Howard is such a powerful director that he can create some of the most uncomfortable scenes in cinema history and he shows that in all of his films. What he does with Ransom is great. He takes a simple plot and develops so much tension that by the time everything explodes it is even a release for the audience. The film has Gibson and Senise at their best.

19. Rounders, dir. John Dahl

Now here's a movie that has staying power. Performances by Matt Damon and Edward Norton that just ooze "cool". This movie will make almost anyone want to play poker. A college favorite because it does so, but a great film because of the acting. In support of Damon and Norton, we have John Malkovich, John Turturro, and Martin Landau, who, each in their own way, add so much to this film, you can never take your eyes off the screen.

18. The Silence of the Lambs, dir. Jonathan Demme

What can I say? One of the greatest horror films of all time. One of the greatest thrillers of all time. One of the greatest dramas of all time. You see, that's just it. No matter how you look at this film, it classifies itself as the top of the genre. Anthony Hopkins' protrayal of Hannibal Lector will undoubtably live on forever as one of the greatest performances of all time.

17. Jurassic Park, dir. Steven Spielberg

I read the book somewhere around 13 times. Only once before the movie came out. Then I saw Jurassic Park on the big screen. After seeing it, I asked my dad for it on tape everyday until it actually came out. This is probably the movie that made me want to make movies. The dinosaurs looked so real, and still do to an extent. The actors and actresses put life into the characters created by Michael Crichton brilliantly. Everytime I watch this film, I feel like a kid again. That is what movies are all about.

16. Finding Forrester, dir. Gus Van Sant

This is one of the few films that I will admit to crying during every time that I watch it. Everything about this film is amazing. Beginning with the story of how Rob Brown attended his friend's audition and landed the lead role, having never acted before and ending with a sensational performance by Sean Connery. A film about true friendship at its core, this movie can only make you feel good when you watch it.

15. Empire Records, dir. Allan Moyle

You'll notice in my top 20 that there aren't many comedies. I guess I just prefer a good drama or thriller, but in the case of Empire Records, I always make an exception. The film has a perfect balance of funny and serious, which is often very hard to obtain. This movie just reads "feel good". Not to mention the fact that it brings about cool dreams of working at Empire Records? Come on, what more can you ask for?

14. Pulp Fiction, dir. Quentin Tarantino

Tarantino is one of my favorite filmmakers of all time and this is my favorite work by him. An all-star cast combined with the quirky, yet brilliant dialogue that Tarantino always brings to the table. This film will go down as a classic for years to come and will always be one of Tarantino's best.

13. Chasing Amy, dir. Kevin Smith

Another comedy, but in a different way. Often overlooked in the Kevin Smith collection, Chasing Amy will always be my most loved Smith film. Once again it is the balance of comedy and drama that pulls me in. While having some of the funniest scenes in any Kevin Smith, it also does something new for Kevin and touches on real issues. The cherry on top is, surprisingly, a speech given by Ben Affleck towards the end of the film that just blows me away.

12. Scream, dir. Wes Craven

So, its known that I am a pretty big horror fan. Scream is probably one of two or three horror movies made in the last 15 years that is actually good. This is because of many things. The first is a great young cast that brings every good element of a horror film to the table. Second, is the writing. Kevin Williamson did something brilliant when he not only made fun of horror movies, but took them seriously at the same time. The jokes are made, but the scares remain. Most important is Scream's ingenuity. First, they kill off the biggest name in the film, in the opening 10 minutes of the film. Second, they add the idea of a second killer to the mix. It is done so well, it makes Scream one of my all time favorites.

11. American Beauty, dir. Sam Mendes

This film used to be in my top 5, and don't get me wrong, I still love it, but it moved down a bit after the last viewing. Maybe I had seen it too many times that it lost its effect on me, but that doesn't change the overall feel of the film. This film is strikingly beautiful on so many levels. The colors that Mendes uses with his shot selection are just amazing. Add to this a remarkable performance by both Kevin Spacey and Annette Benning and you get one unforgetable film.

My Top 20 Movies of All time

2005-10-26T15:53:00.001-04:00

Alright, so I guess this somewhat of a big deal. This morning, Donnie (Steve to some) IMed me and showed me that he compiled a top 10 for the first time. It then, in turn, was the catalyst that made me start thinking about my top 5 that I have always been able to spit out to anyone who asked. Could I do a top 10? Should I do 15? Why not twenty? It took me awhile to decide and this is the decision that I came to. I'm going to give a DEFINATIVE TOP 10 that I can say, with no doubt or regret, is my top 10 movies at this time, no questions asked. After this list, I will post my #11-20, which I will prefece with the fact that these movies are subject to change at any moment with a few minutes of thought. I'll say a little something about each movie as well.

IM me with any questions or comments.

10. The Village, Dir. M. Night Shyamalan

When I saw this film for the first time, I really liked it. When I watched it again about 3 weeks ago, I fell in love with it. The acting in it is brilliant. Whether it is Sigourney Weaver, William Hurt, Joaquin Phoenix, Adrien Brody, or Bryce Dallas Howard in her first starring role, the performances amaze me. James Newton Howard infuses the picture with a brilliant score lead by the chilling, yet beautiful soloist work of Hilary Hahn. In the end, however, I feel it is Shyamalan's ability to weave a tale that uses a gimic (i.e. that of creatures) to tell us a story that is, in fact, much deeper than that all together. It is a tale of true love. What love can do to a person and what it can take away. If you didn't like it the first time, watch it again and try watching it for different reasons, it might change your view of the film.

9. The Usual Suspects, Dir. Bryan Singer

In a time when it seems Hollywood is searching and grabbing to make a dime off of any re-hash, re-make, or sequel, it is a movie like The Usual Suspects that reminds me what originality is. With a script written by Christopher McQuarrie that is brilliantly original and a stunning performance by Kevin Spacey, this movie can do no wrong. I still remember how I sat staring at the screen when it ended for a good 10 minutes wondering, "What just happened?".

8. The Shawshank Redemption, Dir. Frank Darabont

What can I say about this film that hasn't been said by millions? Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman play off of eachother like this was their real life. Every performance, for that matter, is extraordinary in this film. Written by a man you would probably never guess unless you know, Steven King, it is a tale that makes you examine yourself as a human being and wonder, how am I living my life?

7. Garden State, Dir. Zach Braff

Driving from the state of Maryland to New York City to watch a film on the day it is first released. Crazy right? Well, thats what the trailer for this film did to me and a few others, no doubt. Amazingly enough, it was worth every second of the drive, and then some. A simple love story, infused with a humor that only Braff knows brings this movie to the foreground of directorial and writing debuts. Not to mention a soundtrack that more people probably bought than saw the movie in theatres? I think Zach Braff got his first try right.

6. Se7en, Dir. David Fincher

The epitome of the word "Thriller". David Fincher brings a dark, disturbing look to this already disturbing story, which ended up making it one of the best crime-thrillers of all time. Add to that a cast of Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman and you get something in a league of its own. Next time you watch this movie, take a look at what Fincher does with the camera to set the mood. A lot of new filmmakers have certainly learned from his style.

5. Crash, Dir. Paul Haggis

The movie hit me like a brick. I had no idea how powerful it was going to be. Paul Haggis, who wrote Million Dollar Baby, doesn't take the easy way out on his directorial effort, touching on issues such as class differences, corruption and racism in modern day Los Angeles. You know a movie has total control of you when it can make you stop breathing at least 3 times throughout, without you even realizing it until the scenes is over and you gasp for air. That is true cinematic power.

4. Say Anything, Dir. Cameron Crowe

So simple, yet so brilliant. This is Say Anything in a nutshell. Long before the days of his huge blockbusters, Cameron Crowe surprised audiences with this tale of first love and loss. The subtly and truth to the humor and drama in this film are what make it a classic love story. Crowe knows how to write material that is truthful, that people can relate to. He also has a gift for writing romantic scenes that are unforgettable. John Cusack holding the boombox over his head and blasting "In Your Eyes" has become an icon of cinema history.

3. Good Will Hunting, Dir. Gus van Sant

This is what I like to call "hope for a wanna be writer". Ben and Matt write this gem of a flick and look what it has done for them. Not to mention it is an amazing movie to boot. The feelings of love and friendship that it evokes are just unbelievable. Not to mention the many life lessons thrown in along the way by Robin William's character (winning him an oscar). This movie just makes me feel good inside every time that I watch it.

2. Almost Famous, Dir. Cameron Crowe

The second appearence for Mr. Crowe on the list. What can I say, the man just knows how to write good movies, plain and simple. Almost Famous is so much thrown into one film. Love, Friendship, Family, Music, and most importantly for someone like me who wants to make movies, it is a film about following your dreams. No one can deny the power of the bus sing along to "Tiny Dancer", a scene that gave the famous Elton John classic new life. That's what Crowe does, he tells tales through music, shows love through song. His films are amazing.

1. Donnie Darko, Dir. Richard Kelly

The first time someone told me about Donnie Darko, I was like, yeah whatever. Then a good friend of mine sat me down and made me watch it. I must have watched it 4 or 5 times that week. I showed it to all of my friends who hadn't seen it and spread the word. It just hit me so hard. I think what I love about it the most is that everytime someone watches it, they get something new. People have different interpretations of the film and I love getting into discussions about it. This is what movies should be about in my book. It has intellect, humor, great acting, and a ingenious story. I hope Richard continues to push the envelope with his work.

Sin City vs. Sin City

2005-03-30T19:40:00.000-05:00

Ok, so after a short hiatus, the blog is back in action. Why the delay? I was in Las Vegas, the real life Sin City, and boy was it incredible.

In regards to the other Sin City (the last movie the Weinstein's are releasing still under their Disney partnership)...

IT OPENS FRIDAY!!!!

I'll be seeing it tomorrow night so if you wanna know my thoughts, just ask away.

That's Where I Want To Be

2005-03-20T19:30:00.000-05:00

HERE IT IS. The new weezer single "Beverly Hills". A lot of people don't really like it, but I really dig it. Download it at this site and judge for yourself.

www.albumfive.com

Album due out May 10th

==w==

2005-03-16T18:40:00.000-05:00

Well, as you might know, I am an obsessively crazy weezer fan, but what you might not know is that they have a new cd coming out this May. The title of the album is "Make Believe" and it is their 5th album. The first single is due out(with some debate) sometime next week and is entitled "Beverly Hills". You can, however, hear a couple clips of it on this site. www.albumfive.com

enjoy
I know I do

jp

Up...Up...and Down Under!

2005-03-14T14:25:00.000-05:00

It seems nowadays that no matter what I do, I am forever reminded of going to Australia. Well, now I will have a way to revisit it pretty often.

As many of you know, the new Superman movie is under way with the direction of Bryan Singer(The Usual Suspects, X-Men) and they have chosen the land down under as the filming location. In the fashion of Kiwi director Peter Jackson, Byran Singer has decided to do a video journal of the film making and post it on a bi or tri-weekly basis.

The videos can be found at www.bluetights.net

P.S. - I have pictures of me sitting on the rail exactly where he is standing!

Just when I was getting my hopes up

2005-03-14T11:16:00.000-05:00

Quentin Tarantino has come forward and announced that all rumors about Friday the 13th are indeed just that, rumors. While he would love to do a horror movie, Friday the 13th will not be it. He did go on to say that his next film will most likely be his long awaiting Inglorious Bastards, a WWII epic about soldiers stuck behind enemy lines. Whatever he does, it'll be amazing.

An excuse to go back to the most amazing place on earth

2005-03-13T15:23:00.000-05:00

Well, it seems like we haven't heard the last of those lovable little Hobbits. Peter Jackson just announced in an interview that as long as complications between MGM and New Line Cinemas (they both have half-rights to the film) get work out, we may see a film version of The Hobbit as early as 2009. This not only means good action and a great story, but it also means I'll have an excuse to go back to New Zealand. Maybe I'll have connections by then.

Ted Leo owns me

2005-03-09T20:43:00.000-05:00

Alright, so if you've never heard of him (them) there's a great band called Ted Leo and the Pharmacists. You need to check them out. If you want to hear some songs, just IM me and I'll send them along.

But anyway, the point...

He recently did a cover of a song that I have a secret (or not so secret) love for which is "Since You've Been Gone" by Kelly Clarkson. Check it out at the link below. Just Right Click and "Save As".

http://timorousme.org/movies/Since%20U%20Been%20Gone%20+%20Maps%20Medley.mp3

Tarantino Presents Friday the 13th?

2005-03-07T21:37:00.000-05:00

So apparently Quentin Tarantino (director of Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction, Kill Bill..etc) is in talks to write and direct a new chapter in the Friday the 13th saga. Normally I would immediately dismiss this rumor, but he has stated in the past that he would love to do a horror movie. Being both a fan of his and the Ft13 movies, this news does excite me somewhat.

My first post

2005-03-07T21:26:00.000-05:00

So this is my first post. I'm prolly not going to update this thing every often, but it really depends on if anyone responds to my posts. If anything you can come here to find some music you might not know about...or here some good movie news. Later.