You know...
Spirit and Opportunity are still up there working on Mars.
Years after they were supposed to have gone silent these two boys still talk to home base.. well Spirit it taking a nap to conserve power...
I appreciate you JPL and NASA! Wow. What engineering on those two droids.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
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Thursday, January 31, 2008
Jack Hill
This month's Obscuro Appreciato salutes overlooked master writer/director Jack Hill. He emerged from the Roger Corman stable of talent along with the likes of Francis Ford Coppola, Jonathan Demme,
and Jack Nicholson. Hill may be lesser known than these names, but his solid track record of entertaining films stands up to any of them. Hill's movies transcend their exploitation roots and are entertaining on a level all their own.
He kickstarted the careers of Pam Grier and cult favorite Sid Haig (also enjoying a career renaissance as Rob Zombie's Captain Spaulding.) Listen to any one of his DVD commentaries and you'll get a master class in quality low-budget filmmaking. And he penned the line "You wanna spit on me and make me crawl? I'm gonna piss on your grave tomorrow!" Gold.
Must see Jack Hill films include Spider Baby (just rereleased on DVD, see link HERE), Coffy, and the incredible Switchblade Sisters. Hill is currently at work on new projects, check his myspace page and website.
Visualnoiz salutes you, Jack Hill!!!
and Jack Nicholson. Hill may be lesser known than these names, but his solid track record of entertaining films stands up to any of them. Hill's movies transcend their exploitation roots and are entertaining on a level all their own.
He kickstarted the careers of Pam Grier and cult favorite Sid Haig (also enjoying a career renaissance as Rob Zombie's Captain Spaulding.) Listen to any one of his DVD commentaries and you'll get a master class in quality low-budget filmmaking. And he penned the line "You wanna spit on me and make me crawl? I'm gonna piss on your grave tomorrow!" Gold.
Must see Jack Hill films include Spider Baby (just rereleased on DVD, see link HERE), Coffy, and the incredible Switchblade Sisters. Hill is currently at work on new projects, check his myspace page and website.
Visualnoiz salutes you, Jack Hill!!!
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Joe Pantoliano
This Obscuro Appreciato goes out to Joe Pantoliano.
Joe always fills out a cast in the perfect way. He's the guy you love to hate, he's the annoying creep, he's the witty retorter.
He's been in so many wonderful films, it's hard to pick a favorite. As a comic book nerd I should say Daredevil, but he was so wily in The Matrix that I want to say that one. Empire of the Sun, Memento, La Bamba, The Goonies, Risky Business.. the list goes on and on. He's also shown up as a voice in Grand Theft Auto, The Simpsons and even The Sopranos and on the old Tales From The Crypt series.
We tip our hat to you, Joe. You never cease to amaze.
Joe always fills out a cast in the perfect way. He's the guy you love to hate, he's the annoying creep, he's the witty retorter.
He's been in so many wonderful films, it's hard to pick a favorite. As a comic book nerd I should say Daredevil, but he was so wily in The Matrix that I want to say that one. Empire of the Sun, Memento, La Bamba, The Goonies, Risky Business.. the list goes on and on. He's also shown up as a voice in Grand Theft Auto, The Simpsons and even The Sopranos and on the old Tales From The Crypt series.
We tip our hat to you, Joe. You never cease to amaze.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
John Montgomery & FXphd.com
John Montgomery and his crew are doing some amazing things for up and coming animators, FX artists, editors, etc. If you are involved in film/video post production and haven't seen FXphd.com you need to check it out.
For a reasonable price they give you online courses in various software. You watch a weekly quicktime, do homework and participate in message forums with students and professors.
Every week the quicktime is created just for your class, so any questions or problems in the forums will be addressed by the professor the next week. It's very interactive and the results are as good as the time you put into it.
It makes the worldwide classroom into that small "global village" that Marshall McLuhan spoke of ages ago. Professors are always availble to you online because they are always awake somewhere. If it's 4am in Detroit, someone in Australia is available to help you out.
You get a lot of knowledge for relatively little money. Take your skills to the level they belong and join FXphd.com today.
For a reasonable price they give you online courses in various software. You watch a weekly quicktime, do homework and participate in message forums with students and professors.
Every week the quicktime is created just for your class, so any questions or problems in the forums will be addressed by the professor the next week. It's very interactive and the results are as good as the time you put into it.
It makes the worldwide classroom into that small "global village" that Marshall McLuhan spoke of ages ago. Professors are always availble to you online because they are always awake somewhere. If it's 4am in Detroit, someone in Australia is available to help you out.
You get a lot of knowledge for relatively little money. Take your skills to the level they belong and join FXphd.com today.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Lloyd Kaufman & Troma Studios
Our November Obscuro salute goes out to Lloyd Kaufman, founder of the legendary Troma Studios. Lloyd has been keeping the spirit of independent film alive for decades. Some people think that independent film means stuff from studios like Miramax or Lion's Gate. News Flash: THAT AIN'T INDIE!! True indies don't a have a studio bankroll, fancy catering, or sometimes even a proper crew. They get made due to blood, sweat, tears, (and occasionally other bodily fluids best not discussed), and most of all the dedication, ingenuity, and hard work of everyone involved.
Lloyd has stayed true to his indie roots through thick and thin. With THE TOXIC AVENGER, he pretty much single-handedly created the Gore/Comedy film, paving the way for Sam Raimi's EVIL DEAD sequels and the early films of Peter Jackson. Visualnoiz's own TOO DEAD TO DIE definitely falls into this category, so we owe Lloyd as much as anyone.
The newest film from Troma is the chicken zombie/gore/comedy/musical POULTRYGEIST, just in time for Thanksgiving! Friend the myspace site, check out trailer clips on youtube, and Troma's own website. This film needs your support. Without grassroots promotional efforts, Troma Studios will fold up shop and we'll be stuck with nothing but bland-ass bid studio "films" to watch. And who the hell wants that???!! If you have an indie arthouse theater near you, encourage them to show POULTRYGEIST.
Lloyd Kaufman, we at Visualnoiz salute (and support) you!!!
JASON ROTH signin' off!
Lloyd has stayed true to his indie roots through thick and thin. With THE TOXIC AVENGER, he pretty much single-handedly created the Gore/Comedy film, paving the way for Sam Raimi's EVIL DEAD sequels and the early films of Peter Jackson. Visualnoiz's own TOO DEAD TO DIE definitely falls into this category, so we owe Lloyd as much as anyone.
The newest film from Troma is the chicken zombie/gore/comedy/musical POULTRYGEIST, just in time for Thanksgiving! Friend the myspace site, check out trailer clips on youtube, and Troma's own website. This film needs your support. Without grassroots promotional efforts, Troma Studios will fold up shop and we'll be stuck with nothing but bland-ass bid studio "films" to watch. And who the hell wants that???!! If you have an indie arthouse theater near you, encourage them to show POULTRYGEIST.
Lloyd Kaufman, we at Visualnoiz salute (and support) you!!!
JASON ROTH signin' off!
Monday, October 16, 2006
James Karen & Jim Winburn
This month Obscuro salutes actor James Karen and Stuntman extrordinaire Jim Winburn.
James Karen has been involved in film & television acting since 1962. He has played in everything from light comedies to gruesome horror films. Some of his most notable films include The China Syndrome, Capricorn One, Poltergeist, Return of the Living Dead, Wall Street, Nixon, 13 Days, Mulholland Drive, and many, many more. James was a close friend of Buster Keaton and toured with him on stage in "Merton of the Movies" and the Samuel Beckett film titled "Film." Even at age 83 his career hasn't slowed down, he acted in Superman Returns (scenes deleted by studio, watch for em on DVD!) and in the upcoming Will Smith film The Pursuit of Happyness. (not a typo, that's the title!) Not to mention he's a hell of a funny guy and a real gent. See his resume here
Jim Winburn has made a living as a Hollywood stuntman and stunt coordinator for nearly 40 years. His credits are legion: Halloween, The Fog, Escape From New York, Knight Rider, Tron, Pale Rider, Sword & the Sorcerer, Magnum PI, The Fall Guy, and the list goes on. Jim has retired from heavy stunt work, but continues to be involved in low-budget films, seminars, and more. Hollywood's full of backstabbers, but Jim is an honest, hardworking cat with track record to prove it. Check out his website at website for more info.
Both of the fellows above were kind enough to make an appearance at the recent Thriller Chiller show in Muskegon. If you missed the show you missed out! An extra shout out to Reggie Bannister and his wife Gigi for dropping by as well. Reg already has an Obscuro tribute, but he's so cool he deserves a second salute. Gigi is an excellent special effects makeup artist in her own right. Check Reggie and Gigi's website here
And one last plug for Thriller Chiller. This year's is over....but next year...
Happy Halloween, Noiz-Heads!
Jason
James Karen has been involved in film & television acting since 1962. He has played in everything from light comedies to gruesome horror films. Some of his most notable films include The China Syndrome, Capricorn One, Poltergeist, Return of the Living Dead, Wall Street, Nixon, 13 Days, Mulholland Drive, and many, many more. James was a close friend of Buster Keaton and toured with him on stage in "Merton of the Movies" and the Samuel Beckett film titled "Film." Even at age 83 his career hasn't slowed down, he acted in Superman Returns (scenes deleted by studio, watch for em on DVD!) and in the upcoming Will Smith film The Pursuit of Happyness. (not a typo, that's the title!) Not to mention he's a hell of a funny guy and a real gent. See his resume here
Jim Winburn has made a living as a Hollywood stuntman and stunt coordinator for nearly 40 years. His credits are legion: Halloween, The Fog, Escape From New York, Knight Rider, Tron, Pale Rider, Sword & the Sorcerer, Magnum PI, The Fall Guy, and the list goes on. Jim has retired from heavy stunt work, but continues to be involved in low-budget films, seminars, and more. Hollywood's full of backstabbers, but Jim is an honest, hardworking cat with track record to prove it. Check out his website at website for more info.
Both of the fellows above were kind enough to make an appearance at the recent Thriller Chiller show in Muskegon. If you missed the show you missed out! An extra shout out to Reggie Bannister and his wife Gigi for dropping by as well. Reg already has an Obscuro tribute, but he's so cool he deserves a second salute. Gigi is an excellent special effects makeup artist in her own right. Check Reggie and Gigi's website here
And one last plug for Thriller Chiller. This year's is over....but next year...
Happy Halloween, Noiz-Heads!
Jason
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
RIP Richard Fleischer & Dan Curtis
This week we've lost two of the greats.
Richard Fleischer, son of famous animator & Disney rival Max Fleischer. Richard directed 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Fantastic Voyage, Soylent Green, The Narrow Margin, The Vikings, The Boston Strangler, Mr Majestyk, The Don is Dead, Tora Tora Tora, Dr. Dolittle, and even Conan the Destroyer. He made just about every kind of film imaginable, and did them all well. Be sure to read his excellent autobiography "Just Tell Me When to Cry."
Dan Curtis, pioneer of TV horror and adventure shows. Curtis created Kolchak The Night Stalker and directed the first 2 TV movies with the character, created the long-running Dark Shadows series, The Norliss Tapes, the very creepy Burnt Offerings, the '90s alien miniseries Intruders (which scared the hell out of me!), and everyone's favorite Trilogy of Terror-which features the creepy little Zuni fetish doll stalking Karen Black.
Both creators will be missed.
Richard Fleischer, son of famous animator & Disney rival Max Fleischer. Richard directed 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Fantastic Voyage, Soylent Green, The Narrow Margin, The Vikings, The Boston Strangler, Mr Majestyk, The Don is Dead, Tora Tora Tora, Dr. Dolittle, and even Conan the Destroyer. He made just about every kind of film imaginable, and did them all well. Be sure to read his excellent autobiography "Just Tell Me When to Cry."
Dan Curtis, pioneer of TV horror and adventure shows. Curtis created Kolchak The Night Stalker and directed the first 2 TV movies with the character, created the long-running Dark Shadows series, The Norliss Tapes, the very creepy Burnt Offerings, the '90s alien miniseries Intruders (which scared the hell out of me!), and everyone's favorite Trilogy of Terror-which features the creepy little Zuni fetish doll stalking Karen Black.
Both creators will be missed.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
RIP Chris Penn
Chris Penn was found dead in Santa Monica.
Thanks for all the great times, Chris. You will be fondly remembered for generations due to your ability to swear and go crazy.
Thanks for all the great times, Chris. You will be fondly remembered for generations due to your ability to swear and go crazy.
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Easter Thursday
Well it's Easter today.
Fucking 25 years since the death of John Lennon.
My Beatles tribute webpage (circa 1997)
Fucking 25 years since the death of John Lennon.
My Beatles tribute webpage (circa 1997)
Friday, November 04, 2005
William Hootkins RIP
This month we salute William Hootkins, who passed away October 23, 2005 at age 58 from pancreatic cancer. Hootkins is a fantastic character actor who managed to appear in Star Wars (the ill-fated Jek Porkins), Flash Gordon, Raiders of the Lost Ark ("We have top men working on it") and most memorably in 1989's Batman as Lt. Eckhardt, possibly the scummiest cop to ever slime his way onto the silver screen. He was a veteran of the stage as well, once even playing Alfred Hitchcock. Look for him in a small role in the upcoming Color Me Kubrick. Rest in Peace William Hootkins!!
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
Reggie Bannister
This month's Obscuro goes out to Reggie Bannister. Reggie is a wonderful character actor most prominently featured in the wonderful Phantasm films (The Star Wars of horror!) as Reggie the demon-killing ice cream man. In addition to being a Grade-A dwarf-blastin' asswhomper, Reggie is a hell of a nice guy in person. This hardworking actor (and musician!) deserves some Appreciato!! Visit his webpage at
http://www.reggiebannister.com
http://www.reggiebannister.com
Monday, February 21, 2005
RIP Hunter S Thompson
Sorry to overload the Obscuro Appreciato shout outs this month, but when one of our well respected peeps dies we do more than one Obscuro in a month. There is one more obit coming after this for policital activist and actor Ossie Davis who also died recently.
"There he goes. One of God's own prototypes. Some kind of high powered mutant never even considered for mass production. Too weird to live, and too rare to die."
Gonzo Journalist Hunter S. Thompson took his own life yesterday morning, he was 67.
Known most famously for Johnny Depp's 1998 portrayal of him in the big screen adaptation of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Thompson also gave the world political and cultural criticism through his writing.
Fired from Time magazine as well as other small New York periodicals. He eventually ends up in San Francisco and history is made. He wrote a book on Hells Angels published in 1967. He takes on Nixon... Chicago cops... you name it.
Then in 1971 Rolling Stone publishes his Fear and Loathing... stories. His place in cultural history is forever solidified. They've even got a spot for him at the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.
Bill Murray portrays him in "Where the Buffalo Roam" in 1981, he continues to write more books and Rolling Stone even got him to cover the 1992 Presidential race.
He was a man with sharp wit, stinging commentary and an amazing abilty to put words on paper.
So let's all remember Hunter today by telling everyone we run into today "We can't stop here.. THIS IS BAT COUNTRY!!" or whatever your favorite quote is.
"Few people understand the psychology of dealing with a highway traffic cop. Your normal speeder will panic and immediately pull over to the side. This is wrong. It arouses contempt in the cop-heart. Make the bastard chase you. He will follow. "
"Ah, devil ether. It makes you behave like the village drunkard in some early Irish novel. Total loss of all basic motor function. Blurred vision, no balance, numb tongue. The mind recoils in horror, unable to communicate with the spinal column. Which is interesting because you can actually watch yourself behaving in this terrible way, but you can't control it. "
"Strange memories on this nervous night in Las Vegas. Five years later? Six? It seems like a lifetime, or at least a main era - -the kind of peak that never comes again. San Francisco in the middle sixties was a very special time and place to be a part of. Maybe it meant something. Maybe not, in the long run, but no explanation, no mix of words or music or memories can touch that sense of knowing that you were there and alive in that corner of time and the world. Whatever it meant. "
"You better take care of me Lord, if you don't you're gonna have me on your hands."
"There he goes. One of God's own prototypes. Some kind of high powered mutant never even considered for mass production. Too weird to live, and too rare to die."
Gonzo Journalist Hunter S. Thompson took his own life yesterday morning, he was 67.
Known most famously for Johnny Depp's 1998 portrayal of him in the big screen adaptation of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Thompson also gave the world political and cultural criticism through his writing.
Fired from Time magazine as well as other small New York periodicals. He eventually ends up in San Francisco and history is made. He wrote a book on Hells Angels published in 1967. He takes on Nixon... Chicago cops... you name it.
Then in 1971 Rolling Stone publishes his Fear and Loathing... stories. His place in cultural history is forever solidified. They've even got a spot for him at the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.
Bill Murray portrays him in "Where the Buffalo Roam" in 1981, he continues to write more books and Rolling Stone even got him to cover the 1992 Presidential race.
He was a man with sharp wit, stinging commentary and an amazing abilty to put words on paper.
So let's all remember Hunter today by telling everyone we run into today "We can't stop here.. THIS IS BAT COUNTRY!!" or whatever your favorite quote is.
"Few people understand the psychology of dealing with a highway traffic cop. Your normal speeder will panic and immediately pull over to the side. This is wrong. It arouses contempt in the cop-heart. Make the bastard chase you. He will follow. "
"Ah, devil ether. It makes you behave like the village drunkard in some early Irish novel. Total loss of all basic motor function. Blurred vision, no balance, numb tongue. The mind recoils in horror, unable to communicate with the spinal column. Which is interesting because you can actually watch yourself behaving in this terrible way, but you can't control it. "
"Strange memories on this nervous night in Las Vegas. Five years later? Six? It seems like a lifetime, or at least a main era - -the kind of peak that never comes again. San Francisco in the middle sixties was a very special time and place to be a part of. Maybe it meant something. Maybe not, in the long run, but no explanation, no mix of words or music or memories can touch that sense of knowing that you were there and alive in that corner of time and the world. Whatever it meant. "
"You better take care of me Lord, if you don't you're gonna have me on your hands."
Friday, February 04, 2005
RIP John Vernon
This month we have a second shout out on Obscuro Appreciato.
John Vernon, a stage-trained character actor who played cunning villains in film and TV has died. He was 72.
Most fans may know him best for his role in "Animal House" as Dean Wormer as well as the role of Mr. Big in "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka."
After appearing on Broadway in "Royal Hunt of the Sun" he became a steady player in U.S. films, making his debut in director John Boorman's "Point Blank" (1967) as a turncoat tossed to his death by Lee Marvin.
Vernon went on to work with other celebrated filmmakers including Alfred Hitchcock ("Topaz," 1969); Don Siegel ("Dirty Harry," 1971), and Clint Eastwood ("The Outlaw Josey Wales," 1976).
His deep, menacing voice was custom-made for the many bad guys he played.
He reprised his role in "National Lampoon's Animal House" in the TV spinoff "Delta House" (1979). Other comedy roles followed, including the part of Mr. Big in the film "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka" in 1988.
Vernon appeared in a DVD edition of "Animal House" as part of a satiric update on the characters. Wormer was portrayed as a curmudgeonly old man in a wheelchair.
1984 (1956)
Captain America / The Incredible Hulk / Iron Man / The Sub-Mariner / Marvel Super Heroes (1966)
Dirty Harry (1971)
The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Animal House (1978)
Herbie Goes Bananas (1980)
Heavy Metal (1981)
Airplane II: The Sequel (1982)
Earnest Goes To Camp (1987)
I'm Gonna Git You Sucka (1988)
Batman TV Series (1992)
Pinky And The Brain TV Series (1995)
The Incredible Hulk TV Series (1996)
Command and Conquer Video Game (2001)
Batman: Mystery of the Batwoman (2003)
See IMDb for more info
John Vernon, a stage-trained character actor who played cunning villains in film and TV has died. He was 72.
Most fans may know him best for his role in "Animal House" as Dean Wormer as well as the role of Mr. Big in "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka."
After appearing on Broadway in "Royal Hunt of the Sun" he became a steady player in U.S. films, making his debut in director John Boorman's "Point Blank" (1967) as a turncoat tossed to his death by Lee Marvin.
Vernon went on to work with other celebrated filmmakers including Alfred Hitchcock ("Topaz," 1969); Don Siegel ("Dirty Harry," 1971), and Clint Eastwood ("The Outlaw Josey Wales," 1976).
His deep, menacing voice was custom-made for the many bad guys he played.
He reprised his role in "National Lampoon's Animal House" in the TV spinoff "Delta House" (1979). Other comedy roles followed, including the part of Mr. Big in the film "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka" in 1988.
Vernon appeared in a DVD edition of "Animal House" as part of a satiric update on the characters. Wormer was portrayed as a curmudgeonly old man in a wheelchair.
1984 (1956)
Captain America / The Incredible Hulk / Iron Man / The Sub-Mariner / Marvel Super Heroes (1966)
Dirty Harry (1971)
The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Animal House (1978)
Herbie Goes Bananas (1980)
Heavy Metal (1981)
Airplane II: The Sequel (1982)
Earnest Goes To Camp (1987)
I'm Gonna Git You Sucka (1988)
Batman TV Series (1992)
Pinky And The Brain TV Series (1995)
The Incredible Hulk TV Series (1996)
Command and Conquer Video Game (2001)
Batman: Mystery of the Batwoman (2003)
See IMDb for more info
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
Ernest Borgnine - The Legend Lives On
This month's Obscuro Appreciato goes out to dependable character actor Ernest Borgnine. Borgnine has been appearing in films since the 50s, breaking into the big time with his Oscar-winning turn as the title character in Marty. He's played roles big and small since then, standouts including The Dirty Dozen, The Vikings, The Wild Bunch, The Poseidon Adventure, The Devil's Rain, Emperor of the North Pole, Baseketball, plus memorable guest apprearances on The Simpsons and Spongebob Squarepants (as Mermaid Man!) At age 88, Borgnine continues to act in all manner of films and tv shows and is writing an autobiography tentatively titled "I Don't Wanna Start a Fire, I Just Wanna Keep My Nuts Warm." (He also appears in Angry Chair in animated form, check it!) Bravo Borgnine!
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
The Genius of Zach Braff
OBSCURO APPRECIATO!!!!
This month we salute Zach Braff, upon the DVD release of his feature film directorial debut, Garden State. Zach is best known for being in the cast of the TV show Scrubs, but he's showing the world he is much more than on-screen talent.
Garden State is the best romantic comedy I've seen since Annie Hall. It's exactly the kind of movie I've always wanted to make myself. It's funny, charming, romantic, insightful and fresh. The on-screen talent work amazingly well together. The small details take it a step further.
If I had read the script to this film I would have quit my job for the chance to help make it happen.
This movie said so many things I've been thinking in recent years but could never quite put into words or realize to the extent that they were verbalized in the movie. Zach Braff is a genius. I am seriously going to watch this movie every day for the next month.
When I first saw it, I hated the ending... but now I think it fits... If you've seen it i'll tell you why but I won't ruin it for everyone else.
If I could change anything I would add one more shot at the end... but that's it.
The rest is a masterpiece.
Don't rent it... just go buy it... I'll cover your expense if you don't like it, but you have to give the DVD to someone who's never seen it. *
-Dan
More info:
http://www2.foxsearchlight.com/gardenstate/
* Void where prohibited. Offer not available in all areas. Not applicable to people that didn't like Annie Hall. Limited time offer. Not all who apply for re-imbursement will be accepted.
This month we salute Zach Braff, upon the DVD release of his feature film directorial debut, Garden State. Zach is best known for being in the cast of the TV show Scrubs, but he's showing the world he is much more than on-screen talent.
Garden State is the best romantic comedy I've seen since Annie Hall. It's exactly the kind of movie I've always wanted to make myself. It's funny, charming, romantic, insightful and fresh. The on-screen talent work amazingly well together. The small details take it a step further.
If I had read the script to this film I would have quit my job for the chance to help make it happen.
This movie said so many things I've been thinking in recent years but could never quite put into words or realize to the extent that they were verbalized in the movie. Zach Braff is a genius. I am seriously going to watch this movie every day for the next month.
When I first saw it, I hated the ending... but now I think it fits... If you've seen it i'll tell you why but I won't ruin it for everyone else.
If I could change anything I would add one more shot at the end... but that's it.
The rest is a masterpiece.
Don't rent it... just go buy it... I'll cover your expense if you don't like it, but you have to give the DVD to someone who's never seen it. *
-Dan
More info:
http://www2.foxsearchlight.com/gardenstate/
* Void where prohibited. Offer not available in all areas. Not applicable to people that didn't like Annie Hall. Limited time offer. Not all who apply for re-imbursement will be accepted.
Friday, November 26, 2004
Jean-Pierre Jeunet
VisualNoiz salutes French filmmaker Jean-Pierre Jeunet.
A man with the passion to pull off beautiful, captivating, original, timeless works.
His latest film reminds me that I love Jeunet almost as much as I love the lead actress, my girlfriend, Audrey Tautou. The best thing to happen to film since Veronica Lake.
Website - Un Long Dimanche de Fiancailles (Very Long Engagement)
Watch the two videos. Yes the website is in French, but you can tell the part that says VIDEOS even with a funny looking accent over the E.
I get more blown away by Jeunet with every passing film.
November 26,2004 is the US Release of Un Long Dimanche de Fiancailles
Partial Filmography
1992 - Delicatessen
1997 - Alien Resurrection
2002 Le fabuleux destin d'Amelie Poulain
complete Filmography @ IMDb
A man with the passion to pull off beautiful, captivating, original, timeless works.
His latest film reminds me that I love Jeunet almost as much as I love the lead actress, my girlfriend, Audrey Tautou. The best thing to happen to film since Veronica Lake.
Website - Un Long Dimanche de Fiancailles (Very Long Engagement)
Watch the two videos. Yes the website is in French, but you can tell the part that says VIDEOS even with a funny looking accent over the E.
I get more blown away by Jeunet with every passing film.
November 26,2004 is the US Release of Un Long Dimanche de Fiancailles
Partial Filmography
1992 - Delicatessen
1997 - Alien Resurrection
2002 Le fabuleux destin d'Amelie Poulain
complete Filmography @ IMDb
Saturday, November 13, 2004
RIP Old Dirty Bastard
VisualNoiz salutes the late whacky hip hop musician ODB, founding member of the Wu Tang Clan.
Ol' Dirty Bastard AKA Dirt McGirt AKA Russell Jones complained of chest pains before collapsing at the Manhattan studio today.
He was just days away from his 36th birthday on Monday.
Partial Discography
Wu-Tang
Enter The Wu-Tang - 36 Chambers (1993)
Disciples of the 36 Chambers (2004)
Ol' Dirty Bastard
Return to 36 Chambers (1995)
Nigga Please (1999)
His shining moment was of course the 1998 Grammy awards, where he stormed the stage and stole the microphone from Shawn Colvin. He has spent a lot of money on new clothes to show off when accepting his award and was upset about losing the best rap album award to Puff Daddy. He apologized later.
Recording with Wu Tang whenever he wasn't incarcerated, ODB gave his all on every track. His unmistakable character will be missed by Wu Tang friends everywhere.
We tip our hat to you, ODB. For keeping your style real and being who you wanted to be... even when that meant legally changing your name every few years to reflect who you are at THAT moment.
The press release of the 1999 compilation disc Wu Tang Forever states:
Like a giant sponge, each track absorbs your brain cells into the group’s complex, multi-layered world of edgy Wu-Tang ghetto-speak. Once inside, shocking scenarios, inspired revelations, tragic truths and even wall-to-wall Wu-Tang insanity take over. It’s all delivered in Wu’s infamous, totally unpredictable, wild verbal combat style. "We’re comin’ off with the crazy nigga shit that can’t nobody touch," says Ol’ Dirty Bastard, whose confusing, effectively surreal 1996 "Fantasy" duet with mega-pop star Mariah Carey, is an example of how far Wu-Tang’s tentacles reach into music’s mainstream. Yet, they still maintain respect and support from real hard-core hip-hop heads, and do so without selling-out. If anything, the mainstream bought in.
Ol' Dirty Bastard AKA Dirt McGirt AKA Russell Jones complained of chest pains before collapsing at the Manhattan studio today.
He was just days away from his 36th birthday on Monday.
Partial Discography
Wu-Tang
Enter The Wu-Tang - 36 Chambers (1993)
Disciples of the 36 Chambers (2004)
Ol' Dirty Bastard
Return to 36 Chambers (1995)
Nigga Please (1999)
His shining moment was of course the 1998 Grammy awards, where he stormed the stage and stole the microphone from Shawn Colvin. He has spent a lot of money on new clothes to show off when accepting his award and was upset about losing the best rap album award to Puff Daddy. He apologized later.
Recording with Wu Tang whenever he wasn't incarcerated, ODB gave his all on every track. His unmistakable character will be missed by Wu Tang friends everywhere.
We tip our hat to you, ODB. For keeping your style real and being who you wanted to be... even when that meant legally changing your name every few years to reflect who you are at THAT moment.
The press release of the 1999 compilation disc Wu Tang Forever states:
Like a giant sponge, each track absorbs your brain cells into the group’s complex, multi-layered world of edgy Wu-Tang ghetto-speak. Once inside, shocking scenarios, inspired revelations, tragic truths and even wall-to-wall Wu-Tang insanity take over. It’s all delivered in Wu’s infamous, totally unpredictable, wild verbal combat style. "We’re comin’ off with the crazy nigga shit that can’t nobody touch," says Ol’ Dirty Bastard, whose confusing, effectively surreal 1996 "Fantasy" duet with mega-pop star Mariah Carey, is an example of how far Wu-Tang’s tentacles reach into music’s mainstream. Yet, they still maintain respect and support from real hard-core hip-hop heads, and do so without selling-out. If anything, the mainstream bought in.
Monday, October 11, 2004
RIP Christopher Reeve
Not an obscure celebrity, but this month we salute Christopher Reeve.
Of course, best known for his role as Superman, in his later years Reeve became the biggest advocate of stem cell research the world has seen.
Stem cell research could be capable of curing some of the worst of the worst our medical world has seen. From fighting cancer cells, replacing pacemakers with biological versions, vision loss, Parkinson's disease, creating insulin producing cells, joint replacement and more.
Reeve fell into a coma Saturday after going into cardiac arrest. He later died of heart failure.
Thanks for everything Christopher, you were a hero to the end.
Filmography:
Superman I-IV (1978-1987)
Rear Window (1998) Hitchcock remake
The Muppets Go Hollywood (1979)
More @ IMDB
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001659
Of course, best known for his role as Superman, in his later years Reeve became the biggest advocate of stem cell research the world has seen.
Stem cell research could be capable of curing some of the worst of the worst our medical world has seen. From fighting cancer cells, replacing pacemakers with biological versions, vision loss, Parkinson's disease, creating insulin producing cells, joint replacement and more.
Reeve fell into a coma Saturday after going into cardiac arrest. He later died of heart failure.
Thanks for everything Christopher, you were a hero to the end.
Filmography:
Superman I-IV (1978-1987)
Rear Window (1998) Hitchcock remake
The Muppets Go Hollywood (1979)
More @ IMDB
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001659
Thursday, July 22, 2004
RIP Jerry Goldsmith
This month's Obscuro isn't all that obscure, but he is worthy of note. Jerry Goldsmith died in his sleep after a long battle with the Big C. In his 75 years he scored over 200 films, including Visualnoiz faves like Planet of the Apes( the original, of course!) Alien, Poltergeist, Gremlins (big props!), the Twilight Zone, Man From U.N.C.L.E., and his Oscar winning score for The Omen. Check http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000025/ for more info on Jerry Goldsmith. I think I'll go watch Gremlins....
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
Bruce Campbell
This month's ridiculously late Obscuro goes out to Bruce Campbell. Today (June 22) is the birthday of the man who defines Michigan cult actor coolness. Anyone out there who hasn't seen the Evil Dead trilogy or Bubba Ho-Tep by now needs to turn in their Cool Kid Klub Pass and report to Administrator Boujoulian for swift and immediate discipline. Happy birthday to Bruce Campbell, the biggest little actor! Check out Bruce's website at http://www.bruce-campbell.com
Archive Bruce Campbell quote regarding Time Guy (no really, he watched it!)
Circa December 1997:
Hey Jason,
I saw your epic today. Hey, it was a lot of fun!
If I stay in the business for another twenty years, I might be as good as you
guys! Har!
Keep at it,
Bruce "Time Guy Watcher" Campbell
Archive Bruce Campbell quote regarding Time Guy (no really, he watched it!)
Circa December 1997:
Hey Jason,
I saw your epic today. Hey, it was a lot of fun!
If I stay in the business for another twenty years, I might be as good as you
guys! Har!
Keep at it,
Bruce "Time Guy Watcher" Campbell
Wednesday, May 12, 2004
Greg Colton - GVSU Alumni
i sure do like that Greg Colton.
this fine man has done a lot for himself in the last few months and we are totally super proud of our GVSU alumni brother.
If anyone deserves a jumping "Woot Woot!" it's him so get your tennis shoes on.
Greg we salute you. Obscuro appreciato!! Individuo di famiglia direttore assistente.
Bravo!
Greg will be directing some episodes of the Family Guy, so watch for them soon.
this fine man has done a lot for himself in the last few months and we are totally super proud of our GVSU alumni brother.
If anyone deserves a jumping "Woot Woot!" it's him so get your tennis shoes on.
Greg we salute you. Obscuro appreciato!! Individuo di famiglia direttore assistente.
Bravo!
Greg will be directing some episodes of the Family Guy, so watch for them soon.
Thursday, April 15, 2004
Rob Schrab
VisualNoiz salutes multimedia wunderkind Rob Schrab.
Schrab is the twisted genius behind the infamous comic series SCUD: The Disposable Assassin. Scud was a beacon of light in those dark high school years. The series followed the adventures of a robot assassin born of a vending machine. It was John Woo, Star Trek, Army of Darkness, and god knows what else thrown into a blender to create something fresh and hilarious. Back issues are difficult to find, but well worth the hunt! Ebay is the answer...
In recent years, Schrab has moved on to short films. ROBOT BASTARD, Rob's first venture into moviemaking, is a great romp though all that is cool. Check it out at http://www.robotbastard.com
After ROBOT BASTARD came the Adventures of Ringwald and Molly, a miracle of "drawless animation" (AKA puppets).
Ringwald the pompus alligator and Molly the silly spider muddle their way through a ramshackle universe full of danger, excitement, and pornography. Episodes can be viewed at http://www.channel101.com
A DVD-R of the collected episodes is available for sale at the Robot Bastard link. It's well worth the money. Trust me.
Rob's current venture is Twigger's Holiday, which can also be viewed at Channel101 site. This creator is on the rise, keep your eye on him!
Also, visit the musicians of Irritating Rainbow at
http://www.irritatingrainbow.com
Good tunes to blast space mummies by.
Schrab is the twisted genius behind the infamous comic series SCUD: The Disposable Assassin. Scud was a beacon of light in those dark high school years. The series followed the adventures of a robot assassin born of a vending machine. It was John Woo, Star Trek, Army of Darkness, and god knows what else thrown into a blender to create something fresh and hilarious. Back issues are difficult to find, but well worth the hunt! Ebay is the answer...
In recent years, Schrab has moved on to short films. ROBOT BASTARD, Rob's first venture into moviemaking, is a great romp though all that is cool. Check it out at http://www.robotbastard.com
After ROBOT BASTARD came the Adventures of Ringwald and Molly, a miracle of "drawless animation" (AKA puppets).
Ringwald the pompus alligator and Molly the silly spider muddle their way through a ramshackle universe full of danger, excitement, and pornography. Episodes can be viewed at http://www.channel101.com
A DVD-R of the collected episodes is available for sale at the Robot Bastard link. It's well worth the money. Trust me.
Rob's current venture is Twigger's Holiday, which can also be viewed at Channel101 site. This creator is on the rise, keep your eye on him!
Also, visit the musicians of Irritating Rainbow at
http://www.irritatingrainbow.com
Good tunes to blast space mummies by.
Tuesday, November 25, 2003
Nick Valenti /RIP Jim O'Dea / Chris Wirth / Justin Miller / Robert Rodriguez / Deanna Morse / Ray & Jean Boujoulian
VisualNoiz salutes Photographer extraordinaire Nick Valenti.
Nick was my photos professor at OCC. It was in those final days of obtaining an Associates Degree that I realized what I really wanted to with my life. (i.e. what I would study at a university.)
True, the seed of my love for visual entertainment was first planted when I saw Back To The Future at the age of 9, but it was Nick that gave that seed the water of knowledge to grow into a passion that would lead to my love for the long hours of staring at film as celluloid or digitally represented on a computer screen.
Nicks page about the OCC Orchard Ridge - Fine and Performing Arts Department
Honorable Mention - I would not be where I am today, nor get to where I will be tomorrow without these folks who shared the knowledge of light reacting with lenses and celluloid, tricking the human eye into thinking a sequence of still images is moving. Here is a shout out to the future Obscuro Appreciato peeps who also shaped my film career:
Jim O'Dea (RIP)- Directing each shot as its own masterpiece
Chris Wirth - Animating, remaining positive in unpositive experiences & t-crossing, i-dotting.
Justin Miller - Video Editing lessons circa 1993
Robert Rodriguez - Budget Filmmaking for the real world
Deanna Morse - Using film as an expressable Artform
Ray & Jean Boujoulian - Supporting me during the study of the ever-flaky Liberal Arts.
Nick was my photos professor at OCC. It was in those final days of obtaining an Associates Degree that I realized what I really wanted to with my life. (i.e. what I would study at a university.)
True, the seed of my love for visual entertainment was first planted when I saw Back To The Future at the age of 9, but it was Nick that gave that seed the water of knowledge to grow into a passion that would lead to my love for the long hours of staring at film as celluloid or digitally represented on a computer screen.
Nicks page about the OCC Orchard Ridge - Fine and Performing Arts Department
Honorable Mention - I would not be where I am today, nor get to where I will be tomorrow without these folks who shared the knowledge of light reacting with lenses and celluloid, tricking the human eye into thinking a sequence of still images is moving. Here is a shout out to the future Obscuro Appreciato peeps who also shaped my film career:
Jim O'Dea (RIP)- Directing each shot as its own masterpiece
Chris Wirth - Animating, remaining positive in unpositive experiences & t-crossing, i-dotting.
Justin Miller - Video Editing lessons circa 1993
Robert Rodriguez - Budget Filmmaking for the real world
Deanna Morse - Using film as an expressable Artform
Ray & Jean Boujoulian - Supporting me during the study of the ever-flaky Liberal Arts.
Friday, October 24, 2003
RIP Jack Elam
R.I.P Jack Elam (November 13, 1916 - October 20, 2003)
Made an infamous career with his eerie, immobile eye, which was caused by a fight with another kid at the age of 12. It happened during a Boy Scout meeting when another boy took a pencil, threw it, and it jabbed his eyeball.
Working for Samuel Goldwyn Studios as a bookkeeper for their accounting department, he progressed to Office Controller for cowboy star William Boyd at Hopalong Cassidy Productions before breaking into films.
Inducted into the Hall of Great Western Performers of the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in 1994.
High Noon, Rancho Notorious (both 1952)
Kiss Me Deadly (1955)
Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957)
Baby Face Nelson (1958)
The Comancheros (1961)
Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)
Support Your Local Sheriff! (1969)
Rio Lobo (1970)
Support Your Local Gunfighter (1971)
Aurora Encounter (1986)
The Giant of Thunder Mountain (1991)
Suburban Commando (1991)
Struck by Lightning (1979)
Easy Street (1986-87).
(from IMdb.com)
Colorful American character actor equally adept at vicious killers or grizzled sidekicks. As a child he worked in the cotton fields. He attended Santa Monica Junior College in California and subsequently became an accountant and, at one time, manager of the Bel Air Hotel. Elam got his first movie job by trading his accounting services for a role. In short time he became one of the most memorable supporting players in Hollywood, thanks not only to his near-demented screen persona but also to an out-of-kilter left eye, sightless from a childhood fight. He appeared with great aplomb in Westerns and gangster films alike, and in later years played to wonderful effect in comedic roles.
Made an infamous career with his eerie, immobile eye, which was caused by a fight with another kid at the age of 12. It happened during a Boy Scout meeting when another boy took a pencil, threw it, and it jabbed his eyeball.
Working for Samuel Goldwyn Studios as a bookkeeper for their accounting department, he progressed to Office Controller for cowboy star William Boyd at Hopalong Cassidy Productions before breaking into films.
Inducted into the Hall of Great Western Performers of the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in 1994.
High Noon, Rancho Notorious (both 1952)
Kiss Me Deadly (1955)
Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957)
Baby Face Nelson (1958)
The Comancheros (1961)
Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)
Support Your Local Sheriff! (1969)
Rio Lobo (1970)
Support Your Local Gunfighter (1971)
Aurora Encounter (1986)
The Giant of Thunder Mountain (1991)
Suburban Commando (1991)
Struck by Lightning (1979)
Easy Street (1986-87).
(from IMdb.com)
Colorful American character actor equally adept at vicious killers or grizzled sidekicks. As a child he worked in the cotton fields. He attended Santa Monica Junior College in California and subsequently became an accountant and, at one time, manager of the Bel Air Hotel. Elam got his first movie job by trading his accounting services for a role. In short time he became one of the most memorable supporting players in Hollywood, thanks not only to his near-demented screen persona but also to an out-of-kilter left eye, sightless from a childhood fight. He appeared with great aplomb in Westerns and gangster films alike, and in later years played to wonderful effect in comedic roles.
Wednesday, October 01, 2003
Jason Roths of the World
This Obscuro Appreciato is a strange one. We honor Jason Roth.
Not OUR Jason Roth, different Jason Roth's.
#1 - This Jason Roth is from California, but don't hold that against him. He animated "My Pinkie" in 3D and it turned out very cool. We all know our Jason Roth is a drawn character animator would never do 3D, so its a good thing that this Jason Roth works in 3D so no one will ever confuse the two. He now runs a tech company.
Watch Jason Roth's "My Pinkie" Here
#2 - This Jason Roth hails from Oswego. I don't know where that is but I think Phish plays concerts there. Jason does Flash animation and creates artwork. See his bio here Jason is a high school honor student, so you gotta give him props for that!
#3 - This Jason Roth is a writer and is the editor of SaveTheHumans.com you can read The Right Not To Vote at Capitalism Magazine SaveTheHumans.com is like a competitor of ItWillFail.com but we won't hold a grudge, I promise.
Not OUR Jason Roth, different Jason Roth's.
#1 - This Jason Roth is from California, but don't hold that against him. He animated "My Pinkie" in 3D and it turned out very cool. We all know our Jason Roth is a drawn character animator would never do 3D, so its a good thing that this Jason Roth works in 3D so no one will ever confuse the two. He now runs a tech company.
Watch Jason Roth's "My Pinkie" Here
#2 - This Jason Roth hails from Oswego. I don't know where that is but I think Phish plays concerts there. Jason does Flash animation and creates artwork. See his bio here Jason is a high school honor student, so you gotta give him props for that!
#3 - This Jason Roth is a writer and is the editor of SaveTheHumans.com you can read The Right Not To Vote at Capitalism Magazine SaveTheHumans.com is like a competitor of ItWillFail.com but we won't hold a grudge, I promise.
Wednesday, September 10, 2003
Adrian Lamo
This Obscuro Appreciato is not film/video related but with the Hacker Love Story "Ones and Zeroes" coming from Visual Noiz in the future, it does seem fitting.
Adrian Lamo
We salute you!
Adrian is a hacker extrodinaire who's "victims" have included the NY Times and Yahoo. he gets in, he gets out, he doesn't really mess with your stuff too bad. I love the fact that he added himself as a contact for the NYTimes with expertise in "computer hacking, national security, communications intelligence"
Now that is the way to get some freelance work!!! add yourself to contact lists...
Adrian, if you ever read this, hit me up, and you can add 'film consultant' to your resume.
Adrian Lamo
We salute you!
Adrian is a hacker extrodinaire who's "victims" have included the NY Times and Yahoo. he gets in, he gets out, he doesn't really mess with your stuff too bad. I love the fact that he added himself as a contact for the NYTimes with expertise in "computer hacking, national security, communications intelligence"
Now that is the way to get some freelance work!!! add yourself to contact lists...
Adrian, if you ever read this, hit me up, and you can add 'film consultant' to your resume.
Wednesday, August 27, 2003
Sho Yano
this month we go beyond the realm of film. a figure that may on day change the world.
12 year old med school student, Sho Yano, we tip our hats to you, young man.
12 year old med school student, Sho Yano, we tip our hats to you, young man.
Friday, August 01, 2003
Fisher Stevens
Fisher Stevens, we salute you for your work in:
Short Circuit 1 / 2 - Ben Jahrvi
Hackers - Eugene Belford "The Plague"
and countless others.
Quotes:
Short Circuit
"I am standing here beside myself!!!"
"With excitement like this, who is needing enemas? "
"Goodbye crazy lady, I enjoyed repeatedly throwing you to the ground. "
Howard Marner: Suppose he goes out there and melts down a busload of nuns! How would you write the head line on that one?
Ben: Nun soup?
Hackers
"There is no right and wrong. There's only fun and boring. "
Short Circuit 1 / 2 - Ben Jahrvi
Hackers - Eugene Belford "The Plague"
and countless others.
Quotes:
Short Circuit
"I am standing here beside myself!!!"
"With excitement like this, who is needing enemas? "
"Goodbye crazy lady, I enjoyed repeatedly throwing you to the ground. "
Howard Marner: Suppose he goes out there and melts down a busload of nuns! How would you write the head line on that one?
Ben: Nun soup?
Hackers
"There is no right and wrong. There's only fun and boring. "
Wednesday, July 09, 2003
Justin Woiwode
Justin Woiwode
We salute you my friend, because you have the vision, and the talent to create beautiful things.
You casual websurfers will probably not know who Justin is but you all should. See CosmicYak.com for more details.
L.A.M. (Live Action)
A Void (Animation)
-- more to come --
We salute you my friend, because you have the vision, and the talent to create beautiful things.
You casual websurfers will probably not know who Justin is but you all should. See CosmicYak.com for more details.
L.A.M. (Live Action)
A Void (Animation)
-- more to come --
Thursday, March 13, 2003
Elias Korteas
Elias Koteas
We salute you.
Partly because I just saw Novocaine, and partly because of the wonderous entertainment you've given us with:
Gattaca
Apt Pupil
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Annie Hall
City Slickers
Ararat - The film of the Armenian Genocide
Elias Koteas, the passion you give your craft doesn't go unnoticed!
We salute you.
Partly because I just saw Novocaine, and partly because of the wonderous entertainment you've given us with:
Gattaca
Apt Pupil
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Annie Hall
City Slickers
Ararat - The film of the Armenian Genocide
Elias Koteas, the passion you give your craft doesn't go unnoticed!
Saturday, February 08, 2003
Tracey Walter
First, we must salute Tracey Walter.
You may remember the illustrious Mr. Walter as Bob the Goon in Tim Burton's Batman, Conan's wacky thief sidekick in
Conan the Destroyer, or most famously as the trash-burning sage Miller in the seminal classic Repo Man.
TW never fails to amuse with his scuzzy antics.
City Slickers
Silence of the Lambs
Death To Smoochy
Annie Hall
Tracey Walter-character actor of steel!
You may remember the illustrious Mr. Walter as Bob the Goon in Tim Burton's Batman, Conan's wacky thief sidekick in
Conan the Destroyer, or most famously as the trash-burning sage Miller in the seminal classic Repo Man.
TW never fails to amuse with his scuzzy antics.
City Slickers
Silence of the Lambs
Death To Smoochy
Annie Hall
Tracey Walter-character actor of steel!