"Star Trek" is one of the most iconic and enduring science fiction franchises of all time, following the adventures of Starfleet in the far-future as they explore space, the final frontier. To bring strange new worlds and civilizations to life, "Star Trek" leans heavily into visual effects, many of them cutting edge for technology available at the time. These special effects did everything from showcasing the starship Enterprise to making the ship's memorable transporter look seamlessly functional. Simply put, "Star Trek" wouldn't be what it is without its meticulously realized visual effects.
It takes a whole team and a whole process to bring these futuristic sights to the screen and these behind-the-scenes photographs offer a look at how it was all made. From extensive use of models and bluescreen to modern digital projection, "Star Trek" uses every visual effect trick in the book to thrill audiences. Here is what "Star Trek...
It takes a whole team and a whole process to bring these futuristic sights to the screen and these behind-the-scenes photographs offer a look at how it was all made. From extensive use of models and bluescreen to modern digital projection, "Star Trek" uses every visual effect trick in the book to thrill audiences. Here is what "Star Trek...
- 2/18/2024
- by Samuel Stone
- Slash Film
Po-tay-toes. You can boil 'em, mash 'em, stick 'em in a stew, or even use them as props in the sequel to one of the most successful films of all time! There are some pretty fun stories about the creation of the special effects in the "Star Wars" franchise, and using everyday objects to become something otherworldly seems to be a big part of the SFX playbook. After all, the team in charge of the spaceships for "Star Wars: The Return of the Jedi" used chewing gum to create some of the ships at a distance, along with other items you might find in your refrigerator or closet.
In "The Making of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (Enhanced Edition)" by J. W. Rinzler, the crew members who helped bring one of the most heart-pounding scenes from "The Empire Strikes Back" to life revealed the secrets behind creating some celestial...
In "The Making of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (Enhanced Edition)" by J. W. Rinzler, the crew members who helped bring one of the most heart-pounding scenes from "The Empire Strikes Back" to life revealed the secrets behind creating some celestial...
- 11/26/2023
- by Danielle Ryan
- Slash Film
The "Star Wars" films are well known for their impressive special effects, with beautiful matte paintings, a stunning number of miniatures and puppets, and brand-new techniques developed simply for these movies. But sometimes the budget wasn't able to cover yet another painting or miniature, and that meant that the team working on the film had to get really creative when it came to filling out the universe of "Star Wars." In Issue 67 of "Star Wars Insider," concept artist and visual effects artist Kenneth Ralston explained the secrets behind some of the biggest, most intense sequences in "Star Wars: Return of the Jedi," and they were a lot more mundane than you might think!
The making of "Return of the Jedi" was even more stressful and chaotic than the average movie because the film's creatives had to follow up on the success of not only "A New Hope" but also "The Empire Strikes Back,...
The making of "Return of the Jedi" was even more stressful and chaotic than the average movie because the film's creatives had to follow up on the success of not only "A New Hope" but also "The Empire Strikes Back,...
- 11/12/2023
- by Danielle Ryan
- Slash Film
“Star Wars” is one of the biggest franchises of all time and has welcomed multiple generations to a galaxy far, far away for 45 years. George Lucas’ groundbreaking vision, which began all the way back in 1977 with “A New Hope,” changed the movie industry forever and, with that, made a mark on the Academy Awards that year with a Best Picture nomination. However, the relationship between “Star Wars” and the Oscars hasn’t always been as lovable as Han Solo and Chewie. In fact, there’s often been a touch of Vader-Luke in the conflicted dynamic between the two institutions. Here’s a breakdown of the history of every “Star Wars” movie at the Academy Awards, ranked in terms of Oscars success.
“A New Hope” (1977)
Dir: George Lucas
Starring: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Alec Guinness
“Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and...
“A New Hope” (1977)
Dir: George Lucas
Starring: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Alec Guinness
“Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and...
- 7/28/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Who needs summer blockbusters when there are so many gripping new and recent books related to the world of cinema? This column includes books highlighting creative heavyweights with new projects on the way, like Paul Thomas Anderson and Roman Polanski, and titans who have left us, like Abbas Kiarostami and Elizabeth Taylor. Other releases swim in the bloody waters of giallo, examine African American westerns, and offer reflections on horror cinema from queer and trans writers.
One thing is certain––unlike Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3, Fast X, and The Flash––everything here is worth your time and money.
The Cinema of Paul Thomas Anderson: American Apocrypha by Ethan Warren (Wallflower Press)
While there have been fine books exploring the work of Paul Thomas Anderson (such as Adam Nayman’s Paul Thomas Anderson: Masterworks) Ethan Warren’s American Apocrypha stands as an important accounting of PTA’s energy and influence.
One thing is certain––unlike Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3, Fast X, and The Flash––everything here is worth your time and money.
The Cinema of Paul Thomas Anderson: American Apocrypha by Ethan Warren (Wallflower Press)
While there have been fine books exploring the work of Paul Thomas Anderson (such as Adam Nayman’s Paul Thomas Anderson: Masterworks) Ethan Warren’s American Apocrypha stands as an important accounting of PTA’s energy and influence.
- 6/26/2023
- by Christopher Schobert
- The Film Stage
Surprising no one, Avatar: The Way of Water collected the Oscar in visual effects for its jaw-dropping work that helped to propel the movie to more than $2.2 billion at the box office, making it the third highest grossing movie of all time.
In doing so, Weta FX’s production senior VFX supervisor Joe Letteri collected his fifth competitive award in the category at the 2023 Oscars. He now joins Ken Ralston (Forrest Gump) in holding five competitive Oscars apiece in the category. Both trail Denis Murren (Jurassic Park), who holds the category record of eight competitive Academy Awards.
With the win for The Way of Water, visual effects supervisor Richard Baneham accepted his second VFX Oscar, having previously won the trophy for the original Avatar. Weta VFX supervisor Eric Saindon and senior animation supervisor Daniel Barrett each won their first Oscar on Sunday.
Accepting onstage, Baneham thanked director James Cameron “whose...
In doing so, Weta FX’s production senior VFX supervisor Joe Letteri collected his fifth competitive award in the category at the 2023 Oscars. He now joins Ken Ralston (Forrest Gump) in holding five competitive Oscars apiece in the category. Both trail Denis Murren (Jurassic Park), who holds the category record of eight competitive Academy Awards.
With the win for The Way of Water, visual effects supervisor Richard Baneham accepted his second VFX Oscar, having previously won the trophy for the original Avatar. Weta VFX supervisor Eric Saindon and senior animation supervisor Daniel Barrett each won their first Oscar on Sunday.
Accepting onstage, Baneham thanked director James Cameron “whose...
- 3/13/2023
- by Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Avatar: The Way of Water — which this week crossed the 2 billion mark at the worldwide box office and is now the sixth highest-grossing movie in history — earned a best picture Oscar nomination this morning, as well as noms for its production design, sound and visual effects.
But James Cameron, who has now directed three of the six highest-grossing movies ever — his 2009 Avatar sits at the top of that chart — was passed over in the directing competition for his groundbreaking film for the 2023 Oscar nominations. (The movie also missed an editing nomination; Cameron edited the movie, along with Stephen Rivkin, John Refoua, and the late David Brenner, who died in early 2022).
In this year’s best picture race, Cameron and producer Jon Landau (who together won best picture for Titanic, for which Cameron also claimed the directing trophy) are nominated alongside the producers of All Quiet on the Western Front, The Banshees of Inisherin,...
But James Cameron, who has now directed three of the six highest-grossing movies ever — his 2009 Avatar sits at the top of that chart — was passed over in the directing competition for his groundbreaking film for the 2023 Oscar nominations. (The movie also missed an editing nomination; Cameron edited the movie, along with Stephen Rivkin, John Refoua, and the late David Brenner, who died in early 2022).
In this year’s best picture race, Cameron and producer Jon Landau (who together won best picture for Titanic, for which Cameron also claimed the directing trophy) are nominated alongside the producers of All Quiet on the Western Front, The Banshees of Inisherin,...
- 1/24/2023
- by Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Gale Anne Hurd has been selected by the Visual Effects Society (Ves) as the next recipient of the Ves Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her contributions to visual arts and filmed entertainment. The award will be presented at the 21st Annual Ves Awards on February 15, 2023, at The Beverly Hilton Hotel.
“Gale Anne Hurd is one of the most respected and influential film and television producers of our generation,” said Ves Chair Lisa Cooke. “By focusing on daring material, championing technological innovations and being the consummate hands-on collaborator, she has carved out a leading position in the previously male-dominated world of the blockbuster, and become a recognized creator of iconic cultural touchstones. Gale is a driving force in our global industry and an exemplary role model, and we are very honored to bestow her with the Ves Lifetime Achievement Award.”
The Ves Lifetime Achievement Award, bestowed by the Ves Board of Directors,...
“Gale Anne Hurd is one of the most respected and influential film and television producers of our generation,” said Ves Chair Lisa Cooke. “By focusing on daring material, championing technological innovations and being the consummate hands-on collaborator, she has carved out a leading position in the previously male-dominated world of the blockbuster, and become a recognized creator of iconic cultural touchstones. Gale is a driving force in our global industry and an exemplary role model, and we are very honored to bestow her with the Ves Lifetime Achievement Award.”
The Ves Lifetime Achievement Award, bestowed by the Ves Board of Directors,...
- 1/4/2023
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
In this edition of Star Wars Bits:
"Andor," Nothin' But "Andor"!Regal Robot's Weequay Concept Maquette ReplicaAn Amazing Bb-8 Fan BuildTrailer Reactions for "Tales of the Jedi" and "The Mandalorian" Season 3And More!Andor! Nothin' But Andor!
The first three episodes of "Andor" are now available on Disney+. To celebrate, we've got tons of in-depth reviews and reactions from fans and content creators across the galaxy. We'll start with a spoiler-free review from HelloGreedo, which you can watch above!
Next, Dan Casey at Nerdist breaks down the first three episode and covers everything you might have missed.
Next up, Alex at Star Wars Explained shares his thoughts on the "Andor" premiere.
Ralph and James at Live Action Star Wars review the first episode of "Andor" above. Check out their reviews of Episode 2 & 3 on their YouTube channel.
Star Wars: Rebel Rising Book Review
Just in time for "Andor" fever, Jedi Novel...
"Andor," Nothin' But "Andor"!Regal Robot's Weequay Concept Maquette ReplicaAn Amazing Bb-8 Fan BuildTrailer Reactions for "Tales of the Jedi" and "The Mandalorian" Season 3And More!Andor! Nothin' But Andor!
The first three episodes of "Andor" are now available on Disney+. To celebrate, we've got tons of in-depth reviews and reactions from fans and content creators across the galaxy. We'll start with a spoiler-free review from HelloGreedo, which you can watch above!
Next, Dan Casey at Nerdist breaks down the first three episode and covers everything you might have missed.
Next up, Alex at Star Wars Explained shares his thoughts on the "Andor" premiere.
Ralph and James at Live Action Star Wars review the first episode of "Andor" above. Check out their reviews of Episode 2 & 3 on their YouTube channel.
Star Wars: Rebel Rising Book Review
Just in time for "Andor" fever, Jedi Novel...
- 9/23/2022
- by Adam Frazier
- Slash Film
Exclusive: Amazon Freevee has picked up Icons Unearthed: Star Wars for the UK, the doc series that features the first tell-all on-camera interview with George Lucas’ former wife Marcia Lucas.
The landmark series aired over the summer in the U.S. on Vice TV and has since been renewed for a second season, which will showcase The Simpsons.
Icons Unearthed takes a deep dive into the Star Wars universe and features the first on-camera interview with the creator’s former wife and the original trilogy’s Oscar-winning editor.
Produced by the Nacelle Company and directed by Brian Volk-Weiss (The Toys That Made Us), Icons Unearthed travels to all 50 U.S. states along with Tunisia, England, Canada and Italy, featuring interviews with others involved with the series including Anthony Daniels, Billy Dee Williams, Paul Hirsch, Phil Tippett, Rick Baker, Ken Ralston, John Dykstra, Howard Kazanjian, Julian Glover, Ian McDiarmid, Gus Lopez,...
The landmark series aired over the summer in the U.S. on Vice TV and has since been renewed for a second season, which will showcase The Simpsons.
Icons Unearthed takes a deep dive into the Star Wars universe and features the first on-camera interview with the creator’s former wife and the original trilogy’s Oscar-winning editor.
Produced by the Nacelle Company and directed by Brian Volk-Weiss (The Toys That Made Us), Icons Unearthed travels to all 50 U.S. states along with Tunisia, England, Canada and Italy, featuring interviews with others involved with the series including Anthony Daniels, Billy Dee Williams, Paul Hirsch, Phil Tippett, Rick Baker, Ken Ralston, John Dykstra, Howard Kazanjian, Julian Glover, Ian McDiarmid, Gus Lopez,...
- 9/23/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The Nacelle Company’s “Icons Unearthed” has been renewed for Season 2 by Vice TV, Variety has learned exclusively.
In Season 2, the six-part documentary series will focus on long-running animated sitcom “The Simpsons.” Directed by Nacelle Company CEO Brian Volk-Weiss, “Icons Unearthed: The Simpsons” will reveal previously unknown and surprising details about the beloved animated series. The second season also features exclusive interviews with several writers, directors, actors and network executives, including Bill Oakley, Rich Moore, Jon Vitti, Mimi Pond, Doug Benson, Todd McFarlane, Garth Ancier, Phil Roman and Jennifer Howell.
“We’re ecstatic to have the second season of our ‘Icons Unearthed’ documentary series officially picked up by Vice TV. It’s an honor to be able to tell the little known history behind one of the most historic franchises in television, ‘The Simpsons,’” Volk-Weiss said in a statement.
In the first season of “Icons Unearthed,” the show explored the...
In Season 2, the six-part documentary series will focus on long-running animated sitcom “The Simpsons.” Directed by Nacelle Company CEO Brian Volk-Weiss, “Icons Unearthed: The Simpsons” will reveal previously unknown and surprising details about the beloved animated series. The second season also features exclusive interviews with several writers, directors, actors and network executives, including Bill Oakley, Rich Moore, Jon Vitti, Mimi Pond, Doug Benson, Todd McFarlane, Garth Ancier, Phil Roman and Jennifer Howell.
“We’re ecstatic to have the second season of our ‘Icons Unearthed’ documentary series officially picked up by Vice TV. It’s an honor to be able to tell the little known history behind one of the most historic franchises in television, ‘The Simpsons,’” Volk-Weiss said in a statement.
In the first season of “Icons Unearthed,” the show explored the...
- 7/23/2022
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
Vice TV will world premiere the Nacelle Company’s new Icons Unearthed series July 12, with the first installment of a 6-hour deep dive into the Star Wars Universe.
In Icons Unearthed: Star Wars Marcia Lucas, Oscar-winning film editor and ex-wife of George Lucas, sits down for her first-ever on-camera interview and provides unique insight into the rise of LucasFilm — including her 14-year marriage to and eventual divorce from George Lucas — the editing of the original Star Wars trilogy, the origin of the idea that Darth Vader would be Luke’s father and if there were really originally plans for nine movies.
Icons Unearthed: Star Wars also includes exclusive interviews with Anthony Daniels, Billy Dee Williams, Paul Hirsch, Phil Tippett, Rick Baker, Ken Ralston, John Dykstra, Howard Kazanjian, Julian Glover, Ian McDiarmid, Gus Lopez, Tom Spina and many more. Icons Unearthed: Star Wars is narrated by Michael Pennington, who portrayed Moff...
In Icons Unearthed: Star Wars Marcia Lucas, Oscar-winning film editor and ex-wife of George Lucas, sits down for her first-ever on-camera interview and provides unique insight into the rise of LucasFilm — including her 14-year marriage to and eventual divorce from George Lucas — the editing of the original Star Wars trilogy, the origin of the idea that Darth Vader would be Luke’s father and if there were really originally plans for nine movies.
Icons Unearthed: Star Wars also includes exclusive interviews with Anthony Daniels, Billy Dee Williams, Paul Hirsch, Phil Tippett, Rick Baker, Ken Ralston, John Dykstra, Howard Kazanjian, Julian Glover, Ian McDiarmid, Gus Lopez, Tom Spina and many more. Icons Unearthed: Star Wars is narrated by Michael Pennington, who portrayed Moff...
- 6/6/2022
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Over the past 25 years, visual effects have morphed from a sometimes-niche component of a sci-fi or adventure film to a fundamental part of nearly every movie or TV show. But this boom hasn’t generally created increased opportunity for women and women of color, though.
Despite the desperate need for qualified VFX artists, producers and supervisors to meet the increasing demand, a report by Women in Animation, an advocacy group, and the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative found that just 2.9% of all VFX supervisors are women and only 0.5% are women of color. When they looked at the number of women credited for VFX work over time, the numbers also didn’t show that much improvement. When the groups analyzed the 400 top-earning films from 2016 through 2019, it was found that women were given 20.8%
of the VFX credits in 2016 and 22.6% in 2019.
The report also looked at how women were acknowledged for their work during awards season.
Despite the desperate need for qualified VFX artists, producers and supervisors to meet the increasing demand, a report by Women in Animation, an advocacy group, and the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative found that just 2.9% of all VFX supervisors are women and only 0.5% are women of color. When they looked at the number of women credited for VFX work over time, the numbers also didn’t show that much improvement. When the groups analyzed the 400 top-earning films from 2016 through 2019, it was found that women were given 20.8%
of the VFX credits in 2016 and 22.6% in 2019.
The report also looked at how women were acknowledged for their work during awards season.
- 1/21/2022
- by Karen Idelson
- Variety Film + TV
The Visual Effects Society has named Oscar-winning director-producer-screenwriter Peter Jackson as the forthcoming recipient of the Ves Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contributions to filmed entertainment. The award will be presented at the 19th Annual Ves Awards, streaming worldwide on April 6 or 7 (depending on time zone) and hosted by comedian Patton Oswalt.
The Ves Lifetime Achievement Award, bestowed by the Ves Board of Directors, recognizes an outstanding body of work that has significantly contributed to the art and/or science of the visual effects industry. Ves will honor Jackson for “his consummate artistry, expansive storytelling and profound gift for blending iconic imagery and unforgettable narrative on an epic scale.” Indeed, Jackson made history with the Lord of the Rings trilogy, becoming the first person to direct three major feature films simultaneously.
Ves also cited “Jackson’s ability to harness craft to bring his unique visions to life and...
The Ves Lifetime Achievement Award, bestowed by the Ves Board of Directors, recognizes an outstanding body of work that has significantly contributed to the art and/or science of the visual effects industry. Ves will honor Jackson for “his consummate artistry, expansive storytelling and profound gift for blending iconic imagery and unforgettable narrative on an epic scale.” Indeed, Jackson made history with the Lord of the Rings trilogy, becoming the first person to direct three major feature films simultaneously.
Ves also cited “Jackson’s ability to harness craft to bring his unique visions to life and...
- 3/22/2021
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Director Martin Scorsese, whose gangster saga “The Irishman” boasts state of the art de-aging VFX from Industrial Light & Magic, is the latest recipient of the Visual Effects Society’s (Ves) Lifetime Achievement Award. (Netflix’s $175-million movie premieres at the New York Film Festival on September 27.) The award will be presented at the 18th Annual Ves Awards on January 29, 2020 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
“Martin Scorsese is one of the most influential filmmakers in modern history and has made an indelible mark on filmed entertainment,” said Mike Chambers, Ves Board Chair. “His work is a master class in storytelling, which has brought us some of the most memorable films of all time. His intuitive vision and fiercely innovative direction has given rise to a new era of storytelling and has made a profound impact on future generations of filmmakers. Martin has given us a rich body of groundbreaking work to aspire to,...
“Martin Scorsese is one of the most influential filmmakers in modern history and has made an indelible mark on filmed entertainment,” said Mike Chambers, Ves Board Chair. “His work is a master class in storytelling, which has brought us some of the most memorable films of all time. His intuitive vision and fiercely innovative direction has given rise to a new era of storytelling and has made a profound impact on future generations of filmmakers. Martin has given us a rich body of groundbreaking work to aspire to,...
- 9/19/2019
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
In today’s film news roundup, “Spider-Man: Far From Home” sets a studio record, Chris Meledandri and Glenn Close are honored, an art-house streaming service is unveiled, and “Cliffs of Freedom” gets a release.
Trailer Stats
The first “Spider-Man: Far From Home” trailer has set a record as the biggest digital launch in Sony Pictures history after 24 hours.
The teaser trailer was unveiled Jan. 15 and generated 130 million views, topping the 116 million views for the first “Spider-Man: Homecoming” trailer. Sony said Friday the trailer was shared at twice the frequency of the first trailer for “Homecoming” and social conversation volume was also the highest in the studio’s history, topping 1.1 million posts in the first day. The studio reported that audiences were particularly excited to see Tom Holland’s return as Spider-Man and Jake Gyllenhaal’s debut as Mysterio.
The trailer began with Holland embarking on a European adventure that’s...
Trailer Stats
The first “Spider-Man: Far From Home” trailer has set a record as the biggest digital launch in Sony Pictures history after 24 hours.
The teaser trailer was unveiled Jan. 15 and generated 130 million views, topping the 116 million views for the first “Spider-Man: Homecoming” trailer. Sony said Friday the trailer was shared at twice the frequency of the first trailer for “Homecoming” and social conversation volume was also the highest in the studio’s history, topping 1.1 million posts in the first day. The studio reported that audiences were particularly excited to see Tom Holland’s return as Spider-Man and Jake Gyllenhaal’s debut as Mysterio.
The trailer began with Holland embarking on a European adventure that’s...
- 1/19/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
The Visual Effects Society (Ves) has tapped Illumination founder/producer Chris Meledandri with its Lifetime Achievement Award, which will be presented at the 17th Annual Ves Awards on February 5th at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. It marks the first such honor for an accomplished filmmaker from animation.
“Chris Meledandri has greatly contributed to the advancement and ever-increasing success of mainstream animated entertainment over the last 20 years,” said Mike Chambers, Ves Board Chair. “His leadership in the industry is paving the way for future generations of artists and producers and he has helped redefine the profile of animation and visual effects on a global scale.”
Read More: Avengers: Infinity War’ Leads Ves Awards with Six VFX Nominations, with Surprising Shutouts
Previous winners of the Ves Lifetime Achievement Award have included James Cameron, Steven Spielberg, Ray Harryhausen, George Lucas, Robert Zemeckis, John Dykstra, Frank Marshall and Kathleen Kennedy, Sir Ridley Scott, and Ken Ralston.
“Chris Meledandri has greatly contributed to the advancement and ever-increasing success of mainstream animated entertainment over the last 20 years,” said Mike Chambers, Ves Board Chair. “His leadership in the industry is paving the way for future generations of artists and producers and he has helped redefine the profile of animation and visual effects on a global scale.”
Read More: Avengers: Infinity War’ Leads Ves Awards with Six VFX Nominations, with Surprising Shutouts
Previous winners of the Ves Lifetime Achievement Award have included James Cameron, Steven Spielberg, Ray Harryhausen, George Lucas, Robert Zemeckis, John Dykstra, Frank Marshall and Kathleen Kennedy, Sir Ridley Scott, and Ken Ralston.
- 1/18/2019
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
“The Jungle Book” is on its way to VFX Oscar gold after getting five Ves nods Tuesday night at the Beverly Hilton. “Rogue One,” the “Star Wars” standalone, however, came away empty-handed after receiving seven nominations.
Innovative Disney hybrid “The Jungle Book” won for outstanding feature, King Louie’s animated performance, virtual cinematography, effects simulations, and compositing.
Laika’s Oscar-nominated “Kubo and the Two Strings” earned VFX animation props, “Deepwater Horizon” took supporting VFX and model work for Industrial Light & Magic, and “Game of Thrones: Battle of the Bastards” continued its TV dominance.
Disney’s “Moana” grabbed two animation awards (created environment and simulations), Pixar won for Hank’s animated performance, and Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” won for its New York City environment
The Ves Visionary Award went to Victoria Alonso, producer and Marvel Studios Evp of physical production. Five-time Oscar winner Ken Ralston (“Return of the Jedi” and “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?...
Innovative Disney hybrid “The Jungle Book” won for outstanding feature, King Louie’s animated performance, virtual cinematography, effects simulations, and compositing.
Laika’s Oscar-nominated “Kubo and the Two Strings” earned VFX animation props, “Deepwater Horizon” took supporting VFX and model work for Industrial Light & Magic, and “Game of Thrones: Battle of the Bastards” continued its TV dominance.
Disney’s “Moana” grabbed two animation awards (created environment and simulations), Pixar won for Hank’s animated performance, and Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” won for its New York City environment
The Ves Visionary Award went to Victoria Alonso, producer and Marvel Studios Evp of physical production. Five-time Oscar winner Ken Ralston (“Return of the Jedi” and “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?...
- 2/8/2017
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Star Wars: Episode VI — Return of the Jedi and visual effects Oscars for his work on Forrest Gump, Death Becomes Her, Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Cocoon. He's an alum of Industrial Light + Magic, where his additional credits include the Back to the Future trilogy, and he now serves as senior VFX supervisor...
- 2/3/2017
- by Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
If anybody’s dreams are interesting, Akira Kurosawa’s should be, and this late career fantasy is a consistently rewarding string of morality tales and visual essays that pop off the screen. Some of the imagery has input from the famed Ishiro Honda.
Akira Kurosawa’s Dreams
Blu-ray
The Criterion Collection 842
1990 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 120 min. / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date November 15, 2016 / 39.95
Starring Mieko Harada, Mitsunori Isaki, Toshihiko Nakano, Yoshitaka Zushi, Hisashi Igawa, Chosuke, Chishu Ryu, Martin Scorsese, Masayuki Yui.
Cinematography Takao Saito, Shoji Ueda
Film Editor Tome Minami
Original Music Sinichiro Ikebe
Creative Consultant ishiro Honda
Visual Effects Supervisors Ken Ralston, Mark Sullivan
Produced by Hisao Kurosawa, Mike Y. Inoue
Written and Directed by Akira Kurosawa
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
At the twilight of his career, after some episodes of career frustration and instability, Akira Kurosawa hit a high note with the epic costume dramas Kagemusha and Ran.
Akira Kurosawa’s Dreams
Blu-ray
The Criterion Collection 842
1990 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 120 min. / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date November 15, 2016 / 39.95
Starring Mieko Harada, Mitsunori Isaki, Toshihiko Nakano, Yoshitaka Zushi, Hisashi Igawa, Chosuke, Chishu Ryu, Martin Scorsese, Masayuki Yui.
Cinematography Takao Saito, Shoji Ueda
Film Editor Tome Minami
Original Music Sinichiro Ikebe
Creative Consultant ishiro Honda
Visual Effects Supervisors Ken Ralston, Mark Sullivan
Produced by Hisao Kurosawa, Mike Y. Inoue
Written and Directed by Akira Kurosawa
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
At the twilight of his career, after some episodes of career frustration and instability, Akira Kurosawa hit a high note with the epic costume dramas Kagemusha and Ran.
- 11/21/2016
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Tribeca Enterprises and Chanel have announced the second annual Through Her Lens: The Tribeca Chanel Women’s Filmmaker Program to support new and emerging Us-based female writers and directors of short-form narrative films.
Five filmmakers will receive project support and one will be awarded full financing to produce her short film, along with support of Tribeca Studios and Pulse Films to make the project.
The four other projects will each receive grant funds to continue the development of their films.
The participants are: Ani Simon-Kennedy with Camp Moonlight; Joey Ally with Displacement Therapy; A.V. Rockwell with Feathers; Catherine Eaton with On The Outs; and Sonejuhi Sinha with The Quarry.
The initiative runs in New York from October 25-27.
The Visual Effects Society said on Thursday that five-time Oscar winner Ken Ralston will receive the Ves Lifetime Achievement Award “in recognition of his enormous contributions to filmed entertainment.” The award will be presented at the 15th Annual Ves Awards...
Five filmmakers will receive project support and one will be awarded full financing to produce her short film, along with support of Tribeca Studios and Pulse Films to make the project.
The four other projects will each receive grant funds to continue the development of their films.
The participants are: Ani Simon-Kennedy with Camp Moonlight; Joey Ally with Displacement Therapy; A.V. Rockwell with Feathers; Catherine Eaton with On The Outs; and Sonejuhi Sinha with The Quarry.
The initiative runs in New York from October 25-27.
The Visual Effects Society said on Thursday that five-time Oscar winner Ken Ralston will receive the Ves Lifetime Achievement Award “in recognition of his enormous contributions to filmed entertainment.” The award will be presented at the 15th Annual Ves Awards...
- 10/20/2016
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Ryan Lambie Oct 20, 2017
One of the most beloved Star Trek movies contains a horrible moment. Ryan looks back at the ear scene in Star Trek: The Wrath Of Khan...
"You see, their young enter through the ears and wrap themselves around the cerebral cortex. This has the effect of rendering the victim extremely susceptible to suggestion... Later, as they grow, follows madness and death..." - Khan Noonien Singh
See related Thor: Ragnarok review
At school the next day, it was all we could talk about. Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan had aired on TV the night before, and for many of us impressionable youngsters, it was the first time we'd seen laid eyes on the movie.
We were too young to have heard about the "Spock must not die!" fan backlash that erupted before the sequel's release in 1982. We didn't know about the film's emotional ending, which was...
One of the most beloved Star Trek movies contains a horrible moment. Ryan looks back at the ear scene in Star Trek: The Wrath Of Khan...
"You see, their young enter through the ears and wrap themselves around the cerebral cortex. This has the effect of rendering the victim extremely susceptible to suggestion... Later, as they grow, follows madness and death..." - Khan Noonien Singh
See related Thor: Ragnarok review
At school the next day, it was all we could talk about. Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan had aired on TV the night before, and for many of us impressionable youngsters, it was the first time we'd seen laid eyes on the movie.
We were too young to have heard about the "Spock must not die!" fan backlash that erupted before the sequel's release in 1982. We didn't know about the film's emotional ending, which was...
- 7/29/2016
- Den of Geek
Release the Kraken! They're only now releasing this Blu-ray in the U.S.. The patron saint of every special effect fan gets the royal treatment in this career overview capped with industry testimonials and rare film items from a cache of 35mm outtakes found packed away in Rh's storeroom. Ray Harryhausen: Special Effects Titan Region B Blu-ray Arrow Video Us 2011 / Color / 1:78 widescreen / 97 min. / Street Date June 28, 2016 / 19.95 Starring Ray Harryhausen, Peter Jackson, Nick Park, Phil Tippet, Randy Cook, Tim Burton, Terry Gilliam, Tony Dalton, Dennis Muren, John Landis, Ray Bradbury, Ken Ralston, Martine Beswick, Vanessa Harryhausen, Caroline Munro, Guillermo del Toro, Joe Dante, John Lasseter, James Cameron, Steven Spielberg, Henry Selick. Original Music Alexandre Poncet Produced by Tony Dalton, Alexandre Poncet Written and Directed by Gilles Penso
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
The time has long passed that Ray Harryhausen was merely a cult figure. By the release of Golden Voyage...
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
The time has long passed that Ray Harryhausen was merely a cult figure. By the release of Golden Voyage...
- 6/29/2016
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Well, it’s better than the first one. That is by no means an endorsement. Instead, it’s an acknowledgment that when it comes to mainstream Hollywood trauma, few scars run as deep as Alice In Wonderland. When Tim Burton gets to Hell, this is the film that will kick off the highlights reel they screen. A near-total refutation of what makes Lewis Carroll’s enduring classic endure, that first film tested my patience in a way few Hollywood films do. I’ve said it before… to be a film critic, you need to generally love movies. You need to love the very act of walking into a theater, sitting down among a crowd of strangers, and then taking that ride when the lights go out. I’ve written before about how it’s my church, and of course, I root for that experience to be great every time it happens.
- 5/15/2016
- by Drew McWeeny
- Hitfix
I'll trade you two RKOs for two Warners', an even swap! This quartet of movie-magic wonderments offer a full course on old-school film effects wizardry at its best. Willis O'Brien passes the baton to disciple Ray Harryhausen, who dazzles us with his own effects magic for the first '50s giant monster epic. And the best monster thriller of the decade is offered at its original widescreen aspect ratio. It's all special enough to merit a mid-week review. Special Effects Collection Blu-ray The Son of Kong, Mighty Joe Young, The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms, Them! Warner Home Video 1933-1954 / B&W / 1:37 Academy - 1:85 widescreen / 335 min. / Street Date October 27, 2015 / 54.96 or 19.98 separately Starring Robert Armstrong, Helen Mack,, Frank Reicher, Victor Wong; Robert Armstrong, Terry Moore, Ben Johnson, Frank McHugh; Paul Christian, Paula Raymond, Cecil Kellaway, Kenneth Tobey, Donald Woods, Lee Van Cleef; James Whitmore, Edmund Gwenn, Joan Weldon, James Arness, Onslow Stevens,...
- 10/23/2015
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Filmmaker George Miller has already quashed those rumors that he's under consideration to direct the "Man of Steel" direct sequel, confirming in interviews that though some early discussions did happen regarding DC Comics properties he might want to tackle - he revealed he wasn't interested.
Of course Miller had some big plans for DC Comics properties a few years ago with his cancelled "Justice League" film. That film had D.J. Cotrana slated to play Superman/Clark Kent, a character that Miller finds challenging to embrace. Speaking with IGN recently, he elaborated on his issues with Superman as a character and how he would've fitted into Miller's Jl:
"I think its been said many times before: he's potentially a very boring character because he has no faults, so you really have to find his demons really to get an internal conflict going. You've really got to do that. Whether that's...
Of course Miller had some big plans for DC Comics properties a few years ago with his cancelled "Justice League" film. That film had D.J. Cotrana slated to play Superman/Clark Kent, a character that Miller finds challenging to embrace. Speaking with IGN recently, he elaborated on his issues with Superman as a character and how he would've fitted into Miller's Jl:
"I think its been said many times before: he's potentially a very boring character because he has no faults, so you really have to find his demons really to get an internal conflict going. You've really got to do that. Whether that's...
- 10/8/2015
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
'Alice in Wonderland' 2010 with Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter. 'Alice in Wonderland' 2010: Plenty of visuals, no substance In the interest of full disclosure, I should start this commentary on Alice in Wonderland by saying that I have never been a fan of Tim Burton's works. I've enjoyed a couple of his movies, but the vast majority of them I've found uninspiring and, really, quite boring. Burton's eye for unusual worlds, particularly in terms of art direction and costume design, is not lost on me. But how can I possibly find Tim Burton a great director when he continues to offer the same tricks, over and over again? True, Burton's stories and characters change from movie to movie. What he offers, however, does not. What's there beyond cool visuals? What's there beyond the neo-gothic atmosphere he offers in Batman, or the brilliantly rendered chocolate factory playhouse in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory?...
- 9/10/2015
- by Nathan Donarum
- Alt Film Guide
The long-anticipated sequel to Tim Burton's 2010 version of "Alice in Wonderland" has finally begun production, with much of the original cast returning.
"Alice in Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass," is now shooting in England, and once again features Mia Wasikowska (Alice), Johnny Depp (the Mad Hatter), Helena Bonham Carter (the Red Queen), and Anne Hathaway (the White Queen), as well as the voices of Alan Rickman (the Blue Caterpillar), Stephen Fry (the Cheshire Cat), and Michael Sheen (the White Rabbit). Joining the ensemble are Rhys Ifans, playing the Mad Hatter's father, Zanik Hightopp, and Sacha Baron Cohen, who's playing a villain named Time.
An official press release from Disney notes that the film is "an all-new new tale that travels back to Underland-and back in Time," where Alice is on a quest to help the Mad Hatter.
Director James Bobin ("The Muppets," "Muppets Most Wanted") takes over from Burton,...
"Alice in Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass," is now shooting in England, and once again features Mia Wasikowska (Alice), Johnny Depp (the Mad Hatter), Helena Bonham Carter (the Red Queen), and Anne Hathaway (the White Queen), as well as the voices of Alan Rickman (the Blue Caterpillar), Stephen Fry (the Cheshire Cat), and Michael Sheen (the White Rabbit). Joining the ensemble are Rhys Ifans, playing the Mad Hatter's father, Zanik Hightopp, and Sacha Baron Cohen, who's playing a villain named Time.
An official press release from Disney notes that the film is "an all-new new tale that travels back to Underland-and back in Time," where Alice is on a quest to help the Mad Hatter.
Director James Bobin ("The Muppets," "Muppets Most Wanted") takes over from Burton,...
- 8/4/2014
- by Katie Roberts
- Moviefone
Disney’s “Alice In Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass” begins principal photography this week, featuring an award-winning production team and all-star ensemble cast, including Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, Mia Wasikowska, Helena Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron Cohen. James Bobin (“The Muppets,” “Muppets Most Wanted”) helms the film, which revisits Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories with an all-new new tale that travels back to Underland—and back in Time.
“Alice In Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass” is produced by Joe Roth (“Maleficent,” “Alice in Wonderland”), Jennifer Todd (“Alice In Wonderland,” “Memento”), Suzanne Todd (“Alice In Wonderland,” “Memento”) and Tim Burton (“Alice in Wonderland,” “Frankenweenie”). John G. Scotti (“Muppets Most Wanted,” “The Muppets”) is the executive producer; Linda Woolverton (“Maleficent,” “Alice In Wonderland,” “Beauty and the Beast”) penned the screenplay. Shooting on location and at Shepperton Studios in England, the film is slated for release on May 27, 2016.
The all-star ensemble...
“Alice In Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass” is produced by Joe Roth (“Maleficent,” “Alice in Wonderland”), Jennifer Todd (“Alice In Wonderland,” “Memento”), Suzanne Todd (“Alice In Wonderland,” “Memento”) and Tim Burton (“Alice in Wonderland,” “Frankenweenie”). John G. Scotti (“Muppets Most Wanted,” “The Muppets”) is the executive producer; Linda Woolverton (“Maleficent,” “Alice In Wonderland,” “Beauty and the Beast”) penned the screenplay. Shooting on location and at Shepperton Studios in England, the film is slated for release on May 27, 2016.
The all-star ensemble...
- 8/4/2014
- by Kellvin Chavez
- LRMonline.com
At long last, the sequel to Disney’s massively successful, if narratively weak, Alice in Wonderland is starting to roll cameras, with James Bobin replacing Tim Burton in the director’s chair. It took a suprisingly long time for this next chapter of the planned franchise to get off the ground, considering the first film broke $1 billion at the box office, but a press release indicates that filming is now underway.
Officially titled Alice in Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass, the follow-up finds the original actors returning to their roles, with a bevy of new stars joining both the live-action and voice casts. What the sequel is exactly about is still foggy, but the story is said to “revisit Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories with an all-new new tale that travels back to Underland—and back in Time.”
Check out the official press release below:
Disney’S “Alice In Wonderland...
Officially titled Alice in Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass, the follow-up finds the original actors returning to their roles, with a bevy of new stars joining both the live-action and voice casts. What the sequel is exactly about is still foggy, but the story is said to “revisit Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories with an all-new new tale that travels back to Underland—and back in Time.”
Check out the official press release below:
Disney’S “Alice In Wonderland...
- 8/4/2014
- by Isaac Feldberg
- We Got This Covered
Filming begins this week on Disney's "Alice in Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass," the follow-up to Tim Burton's 2010 "Alice in Wonderland" which made over $1 billion at the worldwide box-office.
James Bobin ("The Muppets") takes over the helm of the follow-up which will shoot on location and at Shepperton Studios in England ahead of a May 27th 2016 release.
Returning from the previous film are Mia Wasikowska (Alice), Johnny Depp (The Mad Hatter), Helena Bonham Carter (The Red Queen), Anne Hathaway (The White Queen), Matt Lucas (Tweedledee and Tweedledum), Stephen Fry (Cheshire Cat), Alan Rickman (Alan Rickman), Michael Sheen (White Rabbit), Timothy Spall (Bayard), Paul Whitehouse (the March Hare) and Barbara Windsoe (Dormouse).
Joining them for this outing are Rhys Ifans as the Mad Hatter's father, Ed Speleers as 'James Harcourt', Sacha Baron Cohen as 'Time' and Toby Jones as 'Wilkins'.
Much of the same production crew behind...
James Bobin ("The Muppets") takes over the helm of the follow-up which will shoot on location and at Shepperton Studios in England ahead of a May 27th 2016 release.
Returning from the previous film are Mia Wasikowska (Alice), Johnny Depp (The Mad Hatter), Helena Bonham Carter (The Red Queen), Anne Hathaway (The White Queen), Matt Lucas (Tweedledee and Tweedledum), Stephen Fry (Cheshire Cat), Alan Rickman (Alan Rickman), Michael Sheen (White Rabbit), Timothy Spall (Bayard), Paul Whitehouse (the March Hare) and Barbara Windsoe (Dormouse).
Joining them for this outing are Rhys Ifans as the Mad Hatter's father, Ed Speleers as 'James Harcourt', Sacha Baron Cohen as 'Time' and Toby Jones as 'Wilkins'.
Much of the same production crew behind...
- 8/4/2014
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Disney met with some success in their live-action version of Alice in Wonderland (with Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter), and since the film released, talk of a sequel has been on-going. Now, it's finally moved into production as the cast and crew have gathered together in anticipation of it's May 2016 release. Disney announced cameras have started rolling with a new cast list confirming both old and new members of the cast coming to the production.
I wasn't all that thrilled with Alice in Wonderland when it released. Not that it was a bad movie, I just didn't find it all that special or great. So it's tough to muster up much enthusiasm for this sequel, despite the impressive cast coming back for it. From the press release:
Disney’s “Alice In Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass” begins principal photography this week, featuring an award-winning production team and all-star ensemble cast,...
I wasn't all that thrilled with Alice in Wonderland when it released. Not that it was a bad movie, I just didn't find it all that special or great. So it's tough to muster up much enthusiasm for this sequel, despite the impressive cast coming back for it. From the press release:
Disney’s “Alice In Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass” begins principal photography this week, featuring an award-winning production team and all-star ensemble cast,...
- 8/4/2014
- by feeds@cinelinx.com (Jordan Maison)
- Cinelinx
Disney’s Alice In Wonderland: Through The Looking Glass begins principal photography this week, featuring an award-winning production team and all-star ensemble cast, including Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, Mia Wasikowska, Helena Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron Cohen.
James Bobin (“The Muppets,” “Muppets Most Wanted”) will direct.
The Disney movie revisits Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories with an all-new new tale that travels back to Underland—and back in Time.
Alice In Wonderland: Through The Looking Glass is produced by Joe Roth (“Maleficent,” “Alice in Wonderland”), Jennifer Todd (“Alice In Wonderland,” “Memento”), Suzanne Todd (“Alice In Wonderland,” “Memento”) and Tim Burton (“Alice in Wonderland,” “Frankenweenie”). John G. Scotti (“Muppets Most Wanted,” “The Muppets”) is the executive producer; Linda Woolverton (“Maleficent,” “Alice In Wonderland,” “Beauty and the Beast”) penned the screenplay.
Shooting on location and at Shepperton Studios in England, the film is slated for release on May 27, 2016.
The all-star...
James Bobin (“The Muppets,” “Muppets Most Wanted”) will direct.
The Disney movie revisits Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories with an all-new new tale that travels back to Underland—and back in Time.
Alice In Wonderland: Through The Looking Glass is produced by Joe Roth (“Maleficent,” “Alice in Wonderland”), Jennifer Todd (“Alice In Wonderland,” “Memento”), Suzanne Todd (“Alice In Wonderland,” “Memento”) and Tim Burton (“Alice in Wonderland,” “Frankenweenie”). John G. Scotti (“Muppets Most Wanted,” “The Muppets”) is the executive producer; Linda Woolverton (“Maleficent,” “Alice In Wonderland,” “Beauty and the Beast”) penned the screenplay.
Shooting on location and at Shepperton Studios in England, the film is slated for release on May 27, 2016.
The all-star...
- 8/4/2014
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
You've probably seen "Forrest Gump" so many times in the 20 years since its release (on July 6, 1994) that you can recite the dialogue by heart, starting with the line about life being like a box of chocolates.
You probably know that the film won six Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director (for Robert Zemeckis), Best Actor (for Tom Hanks), and Best Adapted Screenplay (for Eric Roth). You may even know about the digital trickery that was used to insert Hanks's low-iq Everyman into historical footage of real-life events from the Baby Boom years, or to erase Gary Sinise's legs for his role as double-amputee Lt. Dan.
Still, there's a lot you may not know, including what Forrest really said (in Winston Groom's novel that inspired the film) about life being like a box of chocolates, or what Hanks's Gump actually said at that protest rally, or which famous actors...
You probably know that the film won six Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director (for Robert Zemeckis), Best Actor (for Tom Hanks), and Best Adapted Screenplay (for Eric Roth). You may even know about the digital trickery that was used to insert Hanks's low-iq Everyman into historical footage of real-life events from the Baby Boom years, or to erase Gary Sinise's legs for his role as double-amputee Lt. Dan.
Still, there's a lot you may not know, including what Forrest really said (in Winston Groom's novel that inspired the film) about life being like a box of chocolates, or what Hanks's Gump actually said at that protest rally, or which famous actors...
- 7/4/2014
- by Gary Susman
- Moviefone
I'm a huge fan of Robert Zemeckis' Who Framed Roger Rabbit. I've seen the movie countless times over the years, but until today I've never heard of the pig head sequence. The scene was fully completed, but was eventually cut from the film. The scene features Eddie Valient (Bob Hoskins) with a giant toon pig head.
The scene offers up an explanation as to why Eddie awkwardly comes into his office to meet Jessica Rabbit. He's shirtless, wearing a tie, and drying himself off in the final cut of the film. Before he came out he was actually washing off his giant cartoon pig head in the sower.
There's a behind the scenes video that shows the scene and how it was made. It's actually included in the special features of the DVD, but I just never watched it until it popped up online. SFX supervisor Ken Ralston talked about the scene saying,...
The scene offers up an explanation as to why Eddie awkwardly comes into his office to meet Jessica Rabbit. He's shirtless, wearing a tie, and drying himself off in the final cut of the film. Before he came out he was actually washing off his giant cartoon pig head in the sower.
There's a behind the scenes video that shows the scene and how it was made. It's actually included in the special features of the DVD, but I just never watched it until it popped up online. SFX supervisor Ken Ralston talked about the scene saying,...
- 3/4/2014
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Home Invasion is a weekly post every Tuesday which shows you what is being released on Blu-Ray & DVD today! We scoured through Amazon to bring you everything you might be interested in. Our Picks of the Week are releases that we are looking forward to checking out, have reviewed and/or were are Picks of the Week on the Dtb Podcast. All descriptions are courtesy of Amazon.com unless noted otherwise. If you are thinking about purchasing any of these items, by clicking via the links provided, you are supporting Dtb. Thank you!
Amazon must have messed something up as there are releases from last week’s Home Invasion post that are supposed to come out today. I have included them back on here as well. We only have a few picks this week but check them out along with the other releases.
Price:
Click Here to buy the Blu-Ray...
Amazon must have messed something up as there are releases from last week’s Home Invasion post that are supposed to come out today. I have included them back on here as well. We only have a few picks this week but check them out along with the other releases.
Price:
Click Here to buy the Blu-Ray...
- 6/25/2013
- by Andy Triefenbach
- Destroy the Brain
Every now and then an anniversary comes along and it makes you pause and realize just how much time has passed and how much the world has changed. Twenty-five years ago, the idea of mixing animation and live-action was nothing new, but using computer-enhanced animation was a fresh approach. Then there was the mind-blowing idea of mashing up every animated icon from the golden age of animation. Yes, Disney and Looney Tunes side by side. The Fleischer Studios creations hobnobbing with the others. It had never been attempted before and was cause for celebration.
In the two and a half decades that have passed, Disney’s attempt to turn Gary K. Wolf’s protagonist into a cartoon perennial has petered out. Roger Rabbit was first born in Wolf’s 1981 novel Who Censored Roger Rabbit? and was turned into a major player thanks to Robert Zemeckis’ ambitious adaptation followed by a...
In the two and a half decades that have passed, Disney’s attempt to turn Gary K. Wolf’s protagonist into a cartoon perennial has petered out. Roger Rabbit was first born in Wolf’s 1981 novel Who Censored Roger Rabbit? and was turned into a major player thanks to Robert Zemeckis’ ambitious adaptation followed by a...
- 4/25/2013
- by Robert Greenberger
- Comicmix.com
Chicago – When “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” was released 25 years ago, it was a revolutionary critical and commercial smash on its way to four Oscars, including a special Academy Award created just for its amazing technical achievement (live-action and animation may be as common as McDonald’s commercials now but not in 1988). However, not every film from the late ’80s has held up well. In fact, most of them work more as nostalgia than anything else. (Case in point, the recent-to-Blu-ray “Willow”). Does “Roger Rabbit” still work? Does it ever. Watching the film on this long-overdue Blu-ray release, I was stunned by how great it still works in every way. It’s a classic.
Rating: 4.5/5.0
Why has Robert Zemeckis’ classic held up while others have not? I think the lack of ’80s-specific references really helps the piece feel timeless and the performances and fantastic script would work in any era. “Roger Rabbit” is just a fun,...
Rating: 4.5/5.0
Why has Robert Zemeckis’ classic held up while others have not? I think the lack of ’80s-specific references really helps the piece feel timeless and the performances and fantastic script would work in any era. “Roger Rabbit” is just a fun,...
- 3/30/2013
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
It's been a long while since last we had anything to report on the ten years in the making documentary Ray Harryhausen: Special Effects Titan, which chronicles the life and times of the legendary effects artist, but finally the film is gearing up to make its premiere.
Look for it to air on the Sony Movie Channel on Wednesday, April 3rd, at 8:00 Pm Et/5:00 Pm Pt, as well as on DirecTV and Dish's video on demand platforms. If you have the Sony Movie Channel, the flick will be airing all month long alongside several of Harryhausen's most beloved films. Hopefully we'll get some home video news soon, but, hey, we take what we can get! Gilles Penso directs.
Synopsis:
Aside from interviews with the great man himself, shot over five years, there are also interviews and tributes from Vanessa Harryhausen, Tony Dalton, Randy Cook, Peter Jackson, Nick Park,...
Look for it to air on the Sony Movie Channel on Wednesday, April 3rd, at 8:00 Pm Et/5:00 Pm Pt, as well as on DirecTV and Dish's video on demand platforms. If you have the Sony Movie Channel, the flick will be airing all month long alongside several of Harryhausen's most beloved films. Hopefully we'll get some home video news soon, but, hey, we take what we can get! Gilles Penso directs.
Synopsis:
Aside from interviews with the great man himself, shot over five years, there are also interviews and tributes from Vanessa Harryhausen, Tony Dalton, Randy Cook, Peter Jackson, Nick Park,...
- 3/15/2013
- by Uncle Creepy
- DreadCentral.com
Ray Harryhausen:
Special Effects Titan
Written and directed by Gilles Penso
Produced by Alexandre Poncet, Co-produced by Tony Dalton
Featuring Ray Harryhausen, James Cameron, Terry Gilliam, John Landis, Nick Park, Steven Spielberg, Peter Jackson, Tim Burton, Joe Dante, Guillermo Del Toro
Release date: On DVD and Blu-ray from 11th March 2013
Running time: 97 mins (film), Cert: tbc
“I think all of us who are practitioners in the arts of science fiction and fantasy movies now, all feel that we’re standing on the shoulders of a giant. If not for Ray’s contribution to the collective dreamscape we wouldn’t be who we are.” James Cameron
The remarkable career of the movie industry’s most admired and influential special-effects auteur, the legendary Ray Harryhausen, is the subject of Ray Harryhausen: Special Effects Titan. Described as “A continual delight” (The Observer), “the stop-motion maestro gets the respect he deserves” (Daily Express...
Special Effects Titan
Written and directed by Gilles Penso
Produced by Alexandre Poncet, Co-produced by Tony Dalton
Featuring Ray Harryhausen, James Cameron, Terry Gilliam, John Landis, Nick Park, Steven Spielberg, Peter Jackson, Tim Burton, Joe Dante, Guillermo Del Toro
Release date: On DVD and Blu-ray from 11th March 2013
Running time: 97 mins (film), Cert: tbc
“I think all of us who are practitioners in the arts of science fiction and fantasy movies now, all feel that we’re standing on the shoulders of a giant. If not for Ray’s contribution to the collective dreamscape we wouldn’t be who we are.” James Cameron
The remarkable career of the movie industry’s most admired and influential special-effects auteur, the legendary Ray Harryhausen, is the subject of Ray Harryhausen: Special Effects Titan. Described as “A continual delight” (The Observer), “the stop-motion maestro gets the respect he deserves” (Daily Express...
- 2/27/2013
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
Chicago – 2012 contained three great Tommy Lee Jones performances, and one of them was delivered by Josh Brolin. Whereas Jones himself was flat-out brilliant in “Hope Springs” and “Lincoln,” he was assigned the thankless task of playing second (or third) banana to the wisecracking, increasingly Bugs Bunny-like Will Smith in Barry Sonnenfeld’s wholly unnecessary third installment in the “Men in Black” franchise.
“Men in Black 3,” released a decade after the failed “Men in Black 2” and fifteen years after the original (and inimitable) smash hit, offers the latest proof that no franchise is considered dead. The fat lady had already sung a litany of operettas over “Mib”’s corpse, but Hollywood remains tone deaf. It’s little wonder why the film wasn’t the massive hit some executives had expected. Fifteen years is an awful long time for fans to wait for a decent follow-up, and Smith is nowhere...
“Men in Black 3,” released a decade after the failed “Men in Black 2” and fifteen years after the original (and inimitable) smash hit, offers the latest proof that no franchise is considered dead. The fat lady had already sung a litany of operettas over “Mib”’s corpse, but Hollywood remains tone deaf. It’s little wonder why the film wasn’t the massive hit some executives had expected. Fifteen years is an awful long time for fans to wait for a decent follow-up, and Smith is nowhere...
- 12/12/2012
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
The Board of Governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences constantly updates the regulations for how distributors, talent and campaigners market movies to Academy voters. According to outgoing Academy President Tom Sherak (who isn't seeking another term and will be replaced by the Governors later this summer) “these rules help us maintain a level playing field for all of the nominees and protect the integrity of the Awards process.” Already, the Academy has launched a major change, allowing Q & As at their weekend Academy screenings. I attended one for "Men in Black 3" with makeup artist Rick Baker and VFX maestro Ken Ralston, which I enjoyed, but found it odd that the Academy was actively encouraging direct marketing to its members. The Academy pays various journalists such as Cari Beauchamp to conduct the interviews (which they are not supposed to turn into stories), but does not allow for questions from the members.
- 7/25/2012
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
Back a year or two, we had again the wonderful opportunity to work with FX Master Ken Ralston on "Men in Black 3." Will Smith has played a huge role in my childhood from when he was rapping and then starred in "Fresh Prince of Bel Air" so to work on characters that would be interacting with Will Smith was just wonderful! - Bobby Chiu In Men in Black™ 3, Agents J (Will Smith) and K (Tommy Lee Jones) are back... in time. J has seen some inexplicable things in his 15 years with the Men in Black, but nothing, not even aliens, perplexes him as much as his wry, reticent partner. But when K's life and the fate of the planet are put at stake, Agent J will have to travel back in time to put things right. J discovers that there are secrets to the universe that K never told...
- 6/5/2012
- ComicBookMovie.com
I met Rick Baker -- winner of seven Academy Awards for Best Makeup -- at the Museum of Moving Image in Queens, New York. It was fitting location for the interview considering Baker's illustrious career: At the museum, Baker was roped off, with an empty stool next to him, like he was his own display. Actually, if Baker were up for it, perhaps he should be his own display -- a constant reminder of movie-making magic, before computer-generated effects made everything too easy. Or, as Baker calls it, too "sloppy." Thankfully for all of us, Baker is still too busy to be considered a museum piece.
Baker, whose latest work can be seen in "Men in Black 3," is a pretty candid guy. (And, yes, he's earned the right to be.) Here, we discuss the joys and tribulations working on "Men in Black 3" -- a film with a script...
Baker, whose latest work can be seen in "Men in Black 3," is a pretty candid guy. (And, yes, he's earned the right to be.) Here, we discuss the joys and tribulations working on "Men in Black 3" -- a film with a script...
- 5/29/2012
- by The Huffington Post
- Huffington Post
It may seem surprising but as a film journo, one of the more difficult elements of interviewing cast and crew, perhaps the most difficult, is getting the interviewee to give an original answer.
Even if you come up with a question they’ve never heard before, they’ll still more likely than not give you something fairly dull, and well-practiced, as before you get anywhere near them, they’ve been quizzed about the film by studio executives, coached by publicists and harassed by journalists visiting the set.
Even on the day of your interview, they will probably have been by at least fifteen people before you, each with their own variation on the same question. And that’s assuming you’re at the first junket for the film – a more likely scenario is that they’ve already done press for it around the world before they come anywhere near you.
Even if you come up with a question they’ve never heard before, they’ll still more likely than not give you something fairly dull, and well-practiced, as before you get anywhere near them, they’ve been quizzed about the film by studio executives, coached by publicists and harassed by journalists visiting the set.
Even on the day of your interview, they will probably have been by at least fifteen people before you, each with their own variation on the same question. And that’s assuming you’re at the first junket for the film – a more likely scenario is that they’ve already done press for it around the world before they come anywhere near you.
- 5/25/2012
- by Ben Mortimer
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Multi Oscar© winning master of make-up effects Rick Baker on the set of Columbia Pictures’ Men In Black 3. Photo By: Wilson Webb. © 2012 Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc.
The story of Men In Black 3 takes the filmmakers back . back to the characters. origins, back to the key moments of their relationship, to focus on the key elements that have kept them at arms. length from each other for 15 years . and looked for ways to resolve the conflict. The answer came in sending Agent J back . back in time.
.We wanted the movie to be both familiar and different,. says director Barry Sonnenfeld, who has taken the helm of all three Men In Black films. .What.s familiar is the characters and premise of the Men in Black and who they are. We wanted to bring Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones back together again. But we also wanted something new and inventive,...
The story of Men In Black 3 takes the filmmakers back . back to the characters. origins, back to the key moments of their relationship, to focus on the key elements that have kept them at arms. length from each other for 15 years . and looked for ways to resolve the conflict. The answer came in sending Agent J back . back in time.
.We wanted the movie to be both familiar and different,. says director Barry Sonnenfeld, who has taken the helm of all three Men In Black films. .What.s familiar is the characters and premise of the Men in Black and who they are. We wanted to bring Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones back together again. But we also wanted something new and inventive,...
- 5/23/2012
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
During our latest podcast, in which we chat to George Lucas's official Star Wars chronicler Jon Rinzler about 2013's 'The Making Of Return Of The Jedi' book release (among many other things), the subject of 'Black Friday at Ilm' came up - and I can't say I had ever heard anything about this before.
Return Of The Jedi represented the absolute apex of achievement in photochemical visual effects technology - even for years after its release. Early CGI outings in 1982 such as Disney's Tron, and Ilm's own 'Genesis Effect' footage in Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan were to lead on to interesting CGI curiosities such as The Last Starfighter (1984) and Flight Of The Navigator (1986); but the digital revolution that was to clear its throat in James Cameron's The Abyss (1989) and Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991) and then roar to an astounded world in Jurassic Park (1993)...all that was years away.
Return Of The Jedi represented the absolute apex of achievement in photochemical visual effects technology - even for years after its release. Early CGI outings in 1982 such as Disney's Tron, and Ilm's own 'Genesis Effect' footage in Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan were to lead on to interesting CGI curiosities such as The Last Starfighter (1984) and Flight Of The Navigator (1986); but the digital revolution that was to clear its throat in James Cameron's The Abyss (1989) and Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991) and then roar to an astounded world in Jurassic Park (1993)...all that was years away.
- 4/5/2012
- Shadowlocked
Art designer Ralph McQuarrie, who worked on the designs for George Lucas Star Wars and its sequels, died today at the age of 82. The Indiana-born McQuarrie began his career as a designer after moving to California in the 1960s. In the mid-'70s, he was hired by Lucas to design Chewbacca and Darth Vader, in addition to other visual elements found in what would become one of the biggest box-office hits in history. "I just did my best to depict what I thought the film should look like, I really liked the idea,” McQuarrie would later tell the San Diego Union-Tribune. “I didn't think the film would ever get made. My impression was it was too expensive. There wouldn't be enough of an audience. It's just too complicated. But George knew a lot of things that I didn't know." McQuarrie also worked on The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.
- 3/4/2012
- by Andre Soares
- Alt Film Guide
Oscar Horrors continues...
Here lies...the 1992 Oscar for Visual Effects – err, here he would be lying, lamenting his fate as a reward to the f/x folks behind Batman Returns or Alien 3, had he not been bewitched by Isabella Rossellini's youth potion. Now, he stands immortal on a mantle shared by Ken Ralston, Doug Chiang, Tom Woodruff Jr. and Douglas Smythe, who brought you the butt-tightening, head-twisting, belly-blasting cinemagic of Robert Zemeckis's Death Becomes Her.
Kurt here. I Love this movie – or should I say, I'm "Mad as Hel" for it. Regardless of what it might say about me, it's a major film of my youth. Prepping for this post, I planned to just skip around and watch the expensive effects scenes, but by the time a grossly overweight and psychotically vengeful Goldie Hawn was twisting her hankie and growling through gritted teeth, "I want to talk about Madeline Ashton,...
Here lies...the 1992 Oscar for Visual Effects – err, here he would be lying, lamenting his fate as a reward to the f/x folks behind Batman Returns or Alien 3, had he not been bewitched by Isabella Rossellini's youth potion. Now, he stands immortal on a mantle shared by Ken Ralston, Doug Chiang, Tom Woodruff Jr. and Douglas Smythe, who brought you the butt-tightening, head-twisting, belly-blasting cinemagic of Robert Zemeckis's Death Becomes Her.
Kurt here. I Love this movie – or should I say, I'm "Mad as Hel" for it. Regardless of what it might say about me, it's a major film of my youth. Prepping for this post, I planned to just skip around and watch the expensive effects scenes, but by the time a grossly overweight and psychotically vengeful Goldie Hawn was twisting her hankie and growling through gritted teeth, "I want to talk about Madeline Ashton,...
- 10/29/2011
- by Kurtis O
- FilmExperience
By Pete Hammond
If you disliked the film as much as I did (and three quarters of the nation’s “critics” agree with me according to Rotten Tomatoes) certainly the temptation is there to come up with every possible variation on Sucker Punch’s ill-conceived title. I felt “sucker-punched” after seeing it. It felt about as good as a “punch” in the gut. It “sucked” the life out of me. Or it just plain “sucked” (no Pun(ch) intended).
For a Zack Snyder flick, which can be expected to bring it at least a strong fanboy contingent on opening weekend, its relatively paltry second place finish with an estimated $19 million (which includes a fairly steep 17% Friday to Saturday drop) has to be a disappointment. But from the beginning Warner Bros just didn’t seem to know how to sell this film. The poster and billboard graphics are busy without being...
If you disliked the film as much as I did (and three quarters of the nation’s “critics” agree with me according to Rotten Tomatoes) certainly the temptation is there to come up with every possible variation on Sucker Punch’s ill-conceived title. I felt “sucker-punched” after seeing it. It felt about as good as a “punch” in the gut. It “sucked” the life out of me. Or it just plain “sucked” (no Pun(ch) intended).
For a Zack Snyder flick, which can be expected to bring it at least a strong fanboy contingent on opening weekend, its relatively paltry second place finish with an estimated $19 million (which includes a fairly steep 17% Friday to Saturday drop) has to be a disappointment. But from the beginning Warner Bros just didn’t seem to know how to sell this film. The poster and billboard graphics are busy without being...
- 3/27/2011
- by Pete Hammond
- Hollywoodnews.com
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