A friend sent me the movie Cellular to see, it has Kim Basinger in it. I thought it was hideously awful, I was trying to get through it though, and then the DVD started skipping, and I tried to take it out and put it back in, and now it won't play at all, and it won't even start over at the beginning, so that's is another reason I like my vhs tapes. I can't stand it when the DVD is working perfect, out of the blue it gets all goofed, and then it quits completely, but then it didn't matter we decided it was too awful and we didn't care what happened.
I was really really thinking of attempting to go see the movie Hide N Seek this weekend, cause it looked kind of good, but I have hated every new movie I have seen, and I am trying hard to give them a shot, because I wanna like them, but the storylines are so stupid, and all the characters are idiots in them.
My family has hated everything new we watched too, and I said...see, now you know why I stay in the 80's. Every new movie just reinforces my mind in to realizing that I should never go anywhere else. Posted by Paul_pci (Member # 3670) on :
Exactly! I think what bothers me most about how the quality of movies has been lacking for quite some time now is how really excellent or fun movies are so far and few between. And so many are so unoriginal. A couple of weeks ago I was browsing thorugh the L.A. Time's piece on movies coming out this year and it seemed like at least half of the titles are sequels or remakes or based on a prior existence.
Two quality movies I'd recommend from last year are: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and Garden State.
My 2 cents. Paul.
Posted by ValleyCat (Member # 1322) on :
Wow Isis this is a real shock to us all. Posted by rocksteadyflamethrower (Member # 1065) on :
Waiting for HipsterMom to come in and say "Hold on, wait a minute...Movies are as good today, if not better, than movies of the 80s!"
Sincerely,
John Kilduff...The Rock Steady Flamethrower
Posted by StevenHW (Member # 509) on :
Don't wait for HipsterMom...I'll say it!
At the risk of ticking off other 80's Rewinders: Current-day and 90's movies are good --- dare I say "better"? --- than most 80's films!
Posted by rocksteadyflamethrower (Member # 1065) on :
Well, you'll do in a pinch!
Sincerely,
John Kilduff...The Rock Steady Flamethrower
Posted by Ronnie (Member # 465) on :
oh lord, here we go.
isis, stop and think. most 80s movies had bad acting, cheesy storylines, and some of the most RETARDED, IDIOTIC, characters ever. but we all seemed to like it anyway. why is it, you cannot find something worth your while in today's society. i have never seen cellular, so i cannot comment on it, but there seems to be a ton of movies (non 80s) that you despise and really take too literally. how can you have that kind of thinking, coming from someone who likes movies like 'private school'...now that's major corniness, bad acting, with an intelligent plot of a bunch of horny teenagers. but it's great comedy, and i happen to love it too.
lighten up.
Posted by stitch groover (Member # 2895) on :
That's kind of negative there, Isis lol. Of course we should remember such critically aclaimed movies from the 80's such as Porky's, Joe versus the Volcano, and Ishtar. Next to these, Mystic River, Eternal Sunshine and Life is Beautiful are just the work of hacks.
Posted by cindymancini (Member # 679) on :
For me, it comes down to repeatability (I don't know if that's really a word..lol... ).
I can honestly say that alot of the newer movies I've seen, I would be content to see only once. Even if they were good, like Eternal Sunshine, I just don't see me popping it in and watching it on a lazy Friday night or Sunday afternoon. Does that make sense?
I think that's the aspect 80's movies have over some of the new stuff. We all watch them a million times but they don't get old. And the cheese is good because honestly, everyday life can be so serious and demanding. Sometimes you just want to have fun and not think too hard. That's when I reach for Spaceballs ! Right or wrong?
[ 27. January 2005, 19:59: Message edited by: cindymancini ]
Posted by rocksteadyflamethrower (Member # 1065) on :
Actually, "Joe Versus The Volcano" was released in 1990 and had a 1990 copyright date.
Although I don't like a lot of today's movies, there's some stuff out there that's worthwhile. Every year when our family goes to Walt Disney World, I go to the AMC 20 screen theater complex at Downtown Disney's Westside. I make a concerted effort to see a new movie each year. Last year, I saw "Monster" and was so awestruck by its' power that I left the theater in a daze and walked into the ladies' room by mistake.
Look, I've learned from HipsterMom and Sam and others that every decade produces good stuff and crap in roughly equal amounts. What I do is look for an 80s spirit in the movies. I don't call them 80s movies if they were released in 1990 or 2000. I call them "90s or modern day movies with 80s spirits". Isis, maybe you should look for an 80s spirit in the modern-day movies you see. Also, bear in mind it wasn't all sex comedies and slasher flicks in the 80s. Two of my fave movies from the 80s are "The Accused" and "Crossing Delancey". Solid plotting and dialogue, good acting, but not what you would consider traditional 80s movies.
In closing, let me say one more thing: When I say things like "discuss 90s topics on the 90s board", it's just me being a wise guy.
Sincerely,
John Kilduff...The Rock Steady Flamethrower
Posted by Sam Hain 666 (Member # 3150) on :
How can the 00's be bad? This is the decade that brought us that true gem of a movie Napoleon Dynamite!!!!!
Posted by cindymancini (Member # 679) on :
Hey Sam, I caught you a sweet bass. P.S. If you liked Napoleon, see the movie Welcome to the Dollhouse. Trust me...Napoleon=Dawn Weiner !!
Posted by Brode (Member # 3732) on :
There was only three movies I liked last year for comedy, and two of them because they starred the Frat Pack (the other of course, being Napoleon).
I really want to see Garden State and Eternal Sunshine, though.
edit: The main problem I have with today's movies are two things...
1) The horror movies are just putrid. They all resort to the same flashing lights, frantic camera, blast of sound shock tactics... I mean, it's not actually scary if all it does is force the human reflex system to react. It used to be you wouldn't look at the screen because of the gore, but now the sound alone is enough to make you jump.
2) The romantic comedies are just boring... I might say this because I'm still young and therefore prefer stories between teens, but The Wedding Planner and Raising Helen are just nauseating. And even the ones that are about teens are patronizing and stupid, the 80s teen movies come from writers who are trying to frame the teen experience, these new ones are just cashing in. Breakfast Club is lurching and downright exhausting, but at least it was truthful. ... I'm rambling. Bye!
[ 27. January 2005, 21:56: Message edited by: Brode ]
Posted by The Wizard (Member # 533) on :
isis: a few 'modern day' films I suggest you take a look at:
If you only go for the 'mainstream' films, ones that get advertised a lot when they're released in the cinema and then all over again when they're release on DVD it's probably because the studios want to recap the money they spent on the films and/or make their books look good for the shareholders - you're going to come away feeling like you wasted your money if you're looking for something special. I haven't seen Cellular on purpose because from the looks of things it appears to be another mainstream 'lets throw some money at this film so we can get some back' instead of the 'lets make this film because it's worth making' way of things.
That's not to say I don't enjoy films like The Fast and the Furious 1 & 2, Torque, Blade trilogy etc. because I know what I'm in for when I watch those, a fun time where I can switch my brain off and just enjoy the OTT plot/effects etc.
[ 27. January 2005, 22:05: Message edited by: The Wizard ]
Posted by McFly (Member # 354) on :
I still give new movies the benefit of the doubt, but haven't seen anything I liked since "Cast Away". It's either all CGI, or remakes, or tv adaptions. The 80s used all the good ideas.
Mystic River, Lost in Translation, I give 'em ten minutes, but they never do anything for me. I'm pretty picky, the last movie I LOVED was 1997's "Breakdown".
Posted by Paul_pci (Member # 3670) on :
2 more cents:
1 cent: Yes, repeatability is a word
1 cent: Sign was sooooo terrible.
Posted by Paul_pci (Member # 3670) on :
2 more cents:
1 cent: Yes, repeatability is a word
1 cent: Signs was sooooo terrible.
Posted by stitch groover (Member # 2895) on :
I love the 80's. But I also love the 60's, 70's, 90's and especially the noughties. I couldn't think of a greater time to be alive. We get to reap the benefits of the best the last half century, but I sure wouldn't want us to rest on our laurels. I couldn't think of anything sadder than feeling out of place in todays world, and wishing I could live in another time. The only way is forward, and I say bring it on! So let's head to the future, forward not backwards, upwards not forwards, and forever twirling, twirling, twirling!!!
Posted by John Jack Torrance (Member # 3770) on :
My family has hated everything new we watched too, and I said...see, now you know why I stay in the 80's. Every new movie just reinforces my mind in to realizing that I should never go anywhere else.
quote:
IT sounds like your stuck in a retro time warp.if you want a great movie from the 90s and there are many to name try The Shawshank Redemption and for fun try Swingers
Posted by Ralph Goodsen (Member # 2413) on :
I dont know how Ronnie can say there was bad acting in the 80s, of course there was, isnt there now though? And yes some of the movies were cheesy, but thats the whole point, they were movies and they knew it. Nowadays people view movies as something real. Just the other day I was watching Better off dead. Theres a scene where a cartoon that John is drawing jumps out and comes to live. To me, that is the 80s. Imagination, creativity, bold thinking etc.
Posted by Ronnie (Member # 465) on :
of course there is bad acting now, DUH.
isis, have you even seen napoleon dynomite? i am just curious. it's pointless humor, but hilarious.
try lord of the rings-it's superb.
how about perfect score? it's sort of a breakfast club type movie. i thought it was ok.
how about 13 going on 30. that is a cute, romantic comedy. if you haven't seen it, then you should.
here's a serious one, tears of the sun. it's an action/drama, with bruce willis.
i will think of some more.
Posted by mamamiasweetpeaches (Member # 1715) on :
My desire in life is horror movies. I cant say all new movies stink but I sure think all new horror movies stink. The last good recent movies I saw were BUBBA HO TEP and SHAUN OF THE DEAD which I am proud to say were recommended by friends on this website!
A good horror flick I saw a while back was FRAILTY. Any horror fans who missed that one should check it out.
Posted by deathbystereo80 (Member # 2005) on :
[/QUOTE]if you want a great movie from the 90s and there are many to name try The Shawshank Redemption and for fun try Swingers [/QB][/QUOTE]
I soooo agree with you on Shawshank Redemption!!! I bought the DVD a couple of months ago and also gave it to my mother, and she loved it as well.
On the horror movie side - mammamia, have you seen The Ring? A Hollywood remake of an (even scarier) movie from Japan. I'm not big on horror movies, and went to watch this without really knowing that it was horror, and deeply regrettet having watched it (during the sleepless night I had afterwards ).
Generally speaking, I think what I love most about the 80s movies is the fact that when I watch a movie I used to love back when I was 14, it brings back all these memories. Those movies I watch and love without judging them for their qualities (or lack thereof). But honestly, there are quite a few 80s movies that I watched recently for the very first time, and to be honest, some of them I know I will never watch again. And others I will. Just like with today's movies.
Posted by CT (Member # 2903) on :
I would have to say that...Certain movie genre from the '80s are still better than '90s & Today's.
'80s Teen-Comedy Vs '90s & Today's Teen-Comedy... Of course the '80s wins again Valley Girl was/is better than..Amercian Pie,Can't Hardly Wait,She's All That etc.
The only movie genre the 90s & Today's have on lock is...Action/Adventure. And that's only because the technology of computer animation is top notch these days.
Posted by Chris Fulmer (Member # 3197) on :
There's two other noteworthy areas we haven't mentioned yet that make me cringe. The first is family films. These have degenerated into the same formula as teen comedies, just with the jokes being slightly less sick. And it's a prerequisite that the kids have to be right about everything, even if their motives and actions are less than ethical. Fathers are automatically evil, and almsot always workaholics who at first care nothing about there families, which I feel as a slap in the face of the millions of wonderful fathers out there who vastly outnumbered the deadbeats. The recent version of Cheaper by the Dozen exemplifies all these perfectly, and left me wishing I could leave early, except I don't have a driver's licence yet (plus, it was disturbing to see Steve Martin, whom I revere more than any living actor, reduced to a bitter, one-dimensional villain). And don't even get me started on the fall of Disney. When I was young they could do no wrong. Now it's just how much they could pump out along formulaic lines that can line Eisner's pockets. Tarzan in 1999 was the last thing they really did worth watching; now Feature Animation's essentially dead and buried. If Roy Disney and Stanley Gold would step up their campaign a bit more, I think I wouldn't be the only one who'd greatly appreciate it. Indeed, only the Harry Potter films come across as well-made anymore, although they really don't have much of a choice with billions of people expecting it a certain way.
I should probably also bring up the fall in soundtrack quality. I'm sure we'll all agree that, by and large, they knew how to put together a great soundtrack in the 80s. Nowadays they simply try their hapless best to reach out to the young demographics and stuff every film full of listless heavy rock anthems that make no solid impression and have really nothing to do with the film itself. When will they learn that nothing in films can be pre-predicted??
Posted by isis9968 (Member # 1780) on :
Well I never thought the acting in Private School was that bad, plus it wasn't a dramatic thriller, it was what it was. Cellular was suppose to be drama and thrilling, and it was plain stupid. I mean why there was even an old telephone in the attic that was actually hooked to a phone line, is a good question, the bad guy comes in and smashes it with a baseball bat and then Kim Basinger puts it back together again (she just happens to be a science teacher), she manages to get this total idiot on the phone, and if he looses the connection with her, she won't ever be able to get him back on the line, she says she was kidnapped, but all she gives him is her name and town she lives in, and says go to the police, and he does, but all these stupid things happen that keep him from getting her "real" help, and it so unbelievable, and she doesn't tell him anything that maybe could be of any use, and it just was stupid, she did a horrible acting job, and I hate how they portray the general public, everyone in every store is rude, everyone is cutting everyone off in traffic, everyone carries a gun around in the glove compartment, everyone talks non stop in public on the cell phone, yeah I mean I guess it is right on the money with how life is, but that is the part that makes me sick. And Chris Fulmer said it right, about how they portray families, the Dad always is the bad guy. I do keep trying to give new movies a shot, and like Cindymancini said, if you do end up liking one, you might have made it through it, but is it one you'll watch over and over and over. The movies I own-which are close to 600-700 I have watched them all repeatedly, and there are lots I am trying to get still. I have not seen Napoleon Dynamite yet...I haven't heard anyone say they didn't like it, but it doesn't seem to be my kind of thing anyway. I have watched a couple movies that I didn't think I'd like but ended up thinking were ok, and one was Cold Mountain and one was Open Range.
Posted by StevenHW (Member # 509) on :
Part of what Isis wrote:
quote:...I hate how they portray the general public, everyone in every store is rude, everyone is cutting everyone off in traffic, everyone carries a gun around in the glove compartment, everyone talks non stop in public on the cell phone, yeah I mean I guess it is right on the money with how life is, but that is the part that makes me sick.
Apparently, you have never visited L.A.!!
And you probably don't want to!
Posted by Canyoudigit. (Member # 2703) on :
quote:Originally posted by Ronnie: oh lord, here we go.
isis, stop and think. most 80s movies had bad acting, cheesy storylines, and some of the most RETARDED, IDIOTIC, characters ever. but we all seemed to like it anyway. why is it, you cannot find something worth your while in today's society. i have never seen cellular, so i cannot comment on it, but there seems to be a ton of movies (non 80s) that you despise and really take too literally. how can you have that kind of thinking, coming from someone who likes movies like 'private school'...now that's major corniness, bad acting, with an intelligent plot of a bunch of horny teenagers. but it's great comedy, and i happen to love it too.
lighten up.
I would agree with this, the trouble with modern cinema is it is dominated by Hollywood. European & Asian cinema has a lot to offer if you are prepaired to do a a little digging.
If horror is your bag then you can't go wrong with Dark Water, Ringu series, The Grudge etc, La Haine is great French film, then you have films like Mullholland Drive, Pi, Twelve Monkeys, Fear & Loathing In Las Vegas, LA Confidential, Big Lobowski, Fargo etc.
If you seek you shall find.
Posted by Nomisdrol (Member # 2688) on :
The debate goes on and on. Of course, we are all here because we love the 80's, but it seems those of us that rate the 80's movies over more recent movies are in the minority...
I have recently seen and enjoyed the following (to name but a few):
Eternal Sunshine of The Spotless Mind Closer Shaun Of The Dead Saw The Bourne Supremacy The Butterfly Effect
**** it! Just check out the following list and you'll note movie from all genres and time periods:
Some you'll agree are classics and some, I know are personal faves that most people wouldn't touch. Whatever, its the variety that I enjoy plus the fact that I don't limit myself to a particular time period...
Noms Posted by StevenHW (Member # 509) on :
All I'm gonna say anymore about this subject, is...if I want to discuss more recent movies, the 90's Rewind board is the place I go.
For me, personally, any discussion of 70's movies (and movies from earlier decades) should go to the 70's Rewind.
80's movies go here, on the 80's Rewind.
90's and 2k movies go on the 90's Rewind.
It's just the way I prefer, and I guess it respects the "code" of distinguishing the eras and the decades in the interest of staying on the topic matter.
Posted by Canyoudigit. (Member # 2703) on :
But Steven if someone says 80's films are better than X decade we have a right to disagree and give reasons why.
The 80's hold a special place for me, but movie wise 1945 - 1965 is the golden era for me, Film Noir, French New Wave, British New Wave, classic Hitch**** etc etc. But I was a kid in the 80's so films even of dubious quality still hold fond memories.
[ 28. January 2005, 15:36: Message edited by: Canyoudigit. ]
Posted by Nomisdrol (Member # 2688) on :
When will we see a 00's rewind forum then, hmmm???
Noms Posted by Sam Hain 666 (Member # 3150) on :
quote:Originally posted by StevenHW: All I'm gonna say anymore about this subject, is...if I want to discuss more recent movies, the 90's Rewind board is the place I go.
For me, personally, any discussion of 70's movies (and movies from earlier decades) should go to the 70's Rewind.
80's movies go here, on the 80's Rewind.
90's and 2k movies go on the 90's Rewind.
It's just the way I prefer, and I guess it respects the "code" of distinguishing the eras and the decades in the interest of staying on the topic matter.
quit trying to steal rocksteady's gimmick.
Posted by isis9968 (Member # 1780) on :
Right, I try and keep movies all seperated in to their little categories of decades on the Rewind. But, let me say...isn't a message board what you make it about? I know it is basically about the 80's, and the 80's music and movies, but when you watch a movie now in 2005-doesn't that actually relate back to where we have come in the movie industry? I personally would go back in time before going forward( watching movies). I have given many many new movies a shot, and all it does to me is enforce the fact that the lifestyle in the 80's, where you see kids riding their BMX bikes, or breakdancing on the streets, or playing in groups, that is all something you don't see now, because it isn't the way the world is any more, and I liked the world in the 80's. To me, you had to be old enough in the 80's to understand what I am talking about, or you'll never get it.
Steven your right I have never been to LA, and I have no desire to, because living in rural Amish country people are rude enough, I'd have to get on some anti depressant like half the rest of the world, to deal with a city, cause it would blow my mind. I have been in New York, and in Philadelphia, and Washington DC, and Pittsburgh, and Orlando,FLA & Richmond, VA and other major cities and even though there are benefits to having more to do, I can't go the crime, and all the "bad" stuff that goes along with cities. It is bad enough in the country. No place is safe anymore.
Posted by Obscurus Lupa (Member # 2700) on :
Funny Cheaper By the Dozen should get thrown in here . . .
My mom really likes Steve Martin, so she recorded Three Amigos (Funny, funny movie) and went to the video store. Most of his better-known movies were rented out, so she got: My Blue Heaven, The Lonely Guy, and Parenthood.
Parenthood was basically Cheaper By the Dozen, although I thought it was better. It just was really, really long, and all the families had problems. Steve Martin? Bad guy father. Punk kids? You got it. Keanu Reeves has a small role? Dude! Dianne Wiest? Yay! Little kids running into things? Classic gag will never die. Rick Moranis? Aw, man, another bad guy father. The brother? Bad father. Wiest's kids? Father left 'em. The grandpa? Bad father of the bad fathers. EVERY character has some small deep meaning to 'em? Yes, yes, yes.
Why did I list these things? I don't know. I thought it was a good movie, although not really the genre I'm into.
The Lonely Guy had a unique brand of humor that made it funny. His conversations with his friend were priceless.
Anyway, back on track here.
Not ALL new movies are horrible--You just think they are. If you want a good scary movie, White Noise was good. It did have the jump out of nowhere scare tactic, but it had a slightly more realistic plotline considering people can hear unknown voices under certain circumstances. Plus Michael Keaton, who did great. Rather sad movie, though. I never really got into serious, sad horror movies.
Pirates of the Caribbean was excellent, as well as Elf (I know, Isis, complain all you want.). If you haven't seen Galaxy Quest, you should give it a try. I thought it was a great parody of the Star Trek genre (or whatever you'd call it).
Or if you want a good TV show, Monk is highly-recommended. Or, if it's ever released on DVD, I'd recommend Big Wolf on Campus--Definitely rooted with Teen Wolf, and was wonderful for a kids' show.
Let's not forget the not-too-recent Adam Sandler comedies Happy Gilmore and Billy Madison. Or Chris Farley/David Spade's great comedies like Black Sheep and Tommy Boy. Chris Farley was also great in Almost Heroes (co-starring with Matthew Perry--They're basically on an expedition to beat Lewis and Clark and have misadventures on the way in the wild with their crew.).
Starsky and Hutch was a great comedy--Ben Stiller is a great comedian. Try Meet the Parents and the excellent sequel, Meet the Fockers (Barbra Streisand, go for it!). What about There's Something About Mary? I haven't actually seen it myself, but what I did see seemed to be a good comedy.
Not forgetting Shrek or Finding Nemo for those animation fans out there, which are good, (almost) clean fun movies.
For the Mike Myers fan, there are, of course, Austin Powers, and the funny romance So I Married An Axe Murderer (Either late 80's or early 90's).
Seth Green rocks, and so does Without a Paddle (Okay, so the whole plot was basically these guys running a pot farm chasing down the hapless heroes in the wild, but I liked it a lot.).
Jurassic Park? While heavy on the CGI, I love those movies, not to mention the 80's fan will love Jeff Goldlum (he isn't in the third one, but there is a possiblity that he'll be in the fourth one, which I'm looking forward to). It has action, strong relationships, and some science stuff for those brainiacs there who like the dinosaurs (Very realistic, and a lot of detail was put into them--Their nostrils moved, their pupils even had action.).
If you're looking for a good older horror movie, try Evil Dead--I don't know if you were the one who didn't see it, Isis, but it's a horror trilogy I really like. The first one began production in 1979, and the third one was released in 1993, so you can say it's a trilogy of three generations.
Ace Ventura is great stupid comedy. The Wedding Singer is a good romance. The Craft is good supernatural stuff. Drop Dead Fred? 90's. A Nightmare Before Christmas! There's a new movie by Tim Burton coming out called "The Corpse Bride" in the same style, which sounds like it'll be a good success come Halloween. The Crow was pretty dark and not really my style, but friends of mine who saw it and like that certain kind of movie said they liked it.
I won't be the one to say that there isn't bad movies nowadays--I get tired of a lot of movies, more so from nowadays than from, say, twenty years ago. But look at this unnecessarily long list! There's plenty of good stuff out there just waiting for you!
Just don't rent Wicker Park or Gerry.
[ 28. January 2005, 17:38: Message edited by: Obscurus Lupa ]
Posted by mamamiasweetpeaches (Member # 1715) on :
Ugh. Hated THE RING so much I rented RINGU...just to prove to myself it must have lost something in translation. Hated that too. THE CURSE was one of the worst movies I saw last year. Wont bother renting its original. Other Oriental snooze-fests: THE EYE, and ....oh...cant even remember the name of the one set in an all-girl school where a ghost travels the corridors. I am so fed up I refuse to see any new pictures. I buy my old favorites on dvd and just watch those.
Posted by Canyoudigit. (Member # 2703) on :
quote:Originally posted by mamamiasweetpeaches: Ugh. Hated THE RING so much I rented RINGU...just to prove to myself it must have lost something in translation. Hated that too. THE CURSE was one of the worst movies I saw last year. Wont bother renting its original. Other Oriental snooze-fests: THE EYE, and ....oh...cant even remember the name of the one set in an all-girl school where a ghost travels the corridors. I am so fed up I refuse to see any new pictures. I buy my old favorites on dvd and just watch those.
Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!
Posted by McFly (Member # 354) on :
"All new movies aren't bad...you just think they are."
Sounds like something Yogi Berra would say lol . That's why I think they suck, because I think they do.
Thank Gosh, someone else didn't like the Ring. I was put to sleep by that.
Adam Sandler, his screaming act has never done anything for me. And you notice now that he's big, he hasn't done one Gilmore or Madison type movie.
Ace Ventura just drains you in 20 minutes. All that hyper-activity.
Interesting point about the Parenthood dads. Though I think Martin just thought he was a bad father cuz he couldn't corral that whining kid of his.
Posted by Obscurus Lupa (Member # 2700) on :
'"All new movies aren't bad...you just think they are."
Sounds like something Yogi Berra would say lol'
Actually, it reminded me of a scene in the show Big Wolf on Campus where the main character is trying to make a new friend feel better . . . "I'm such a loser!" "No you're not. Everybody just thinks you are."
I was also put to sleep by The Ring. The sequel looks much better, but not so good that I'd go to see it. I liked the girl coming out of the TV, but other than that, meh.
As for Adam Sandler, you can only get away with acting like a kid so long before people want a new schtick. And what about The Waterboy? That was pretty big. Ah well. I like his style, but whatever floats your boat.
I'm guessing you're not a big fan of the hyper-active comedian genre, then.
ALL the kids in Parenthood were whiny--And, well, the parents were, too. It was nice when Martin dressed up like a cowboy for his kid's party when there was a mix-up with the entertainment.
[ 28. January 2005, 22:41: Message edited by: Obscurus Lupa ]
Posted by EspecialK (Member # 2152) on :
I actually liked "The Ring." To each his own.
Posted by isis9968 (Member # 1780) on :
I actually like some movies from the 90's, I have listed probably 30-40 of them on the 90's board but noone comments over there. It has just been in the last 5 years, that I have not seen a movie that I would go buy-because I wanted to watch it more than once. I have bought a few for my son-like I-Robot, and Spiderman, but for me-once was enough on any of those movies.
I actually liked Parenthood. But, no way am I watching the Cheaper by the Dozen movie.
I really liked both Father of the Bride movies- that house in it is one of my favorite all time movie houses.
But, see that's where movies get me too...just like Cellular, the houses look like they came off the page of a Decorating Magazine, and everyone is super rich. Even Daddy Day Care...they talk about not making the mortgage payment...but look at what they are driving and how their house is decorated, it is all about money. And, that isn't realistic. Like alot of the houses the kids lived in in the 80's, those are the kind of houses most people live in now even. The more they make it over the top, the more it doesn't feel real to me, and I just can't get in to it. Look at Elf- James Caan was loaded. I always liked Bridget Fonda's apartment in It could Happen to You.
I know "hate" is a strong word...I guess...but I really think the movies of today really stink. I use to be so excited every week to see what was playing at the movies, now there is nothing.
I would still love to go to the movies and be entertained. I am not a fan of dark, depressing stuff...like Mystic River, Bad Santa, and Monster, those aren't movies to watch over and over again and again, they don't do a thing for me, except make me feel awful.
Lupa-you have to see an original Starsky and Hutch episode, to see how they totally ruined that by making it a movie. My Dad bought it for us for Xmas, cause he knows we like the tv series, and didn't know about the movie, I would not watch it, because I don't want the memories of the show ruined for me, but my husband watched it, and he said he hated it, and was having a hard time getting through it too, and he usually will give new stuff a shot.
It is funny how my husband, and my mom, and different people in my family, who use to get on me about me watching older stuff over and over, now they have nothing to watch now too, and are complaining about it, and I at least have stuff to watch- Posted by Ronnie (Member # 465) on :
when i watched mystic river and monster, i didn't assume that these movies were going to entertain me, i knew that they were dark, depressing films. i liked those movies for the performances and other things as well. i check different things out in a film...the dialogue, the acting, the scenery, the soundtrack, the way the movie was shot, and more. and at the end, if it sucked, it sucked. i don't just watch movies that came out in theaters, i watch straight to video stuff, or try to find stuff (even from the 60s) that i have never watched, and give those a shot too.
btw, i thought the ring was great.
Posted by Obscurus Lupa (Member # 2700) on :
I actually liked Spider-man quite a bit, and it was directed by Sam Raimi, so in the sequel there was a Bruce Campbell cameo! Huzzah!
Like I said, I thought Parenthood was better than Cheaper By the Dozen. I know Cheaper was a remake, but it was still the same thing at Parenthood without all the charm to it.
What you need to do is watch a good, fun movie. Seriously, go rent some Chris Farley or Adam Sandler stuff. You'll feel better.
Y'see, I don't think the Starsky and Hutch movie was really intended to be exactly like the show--More of a parody, if you will. Plus there were cameos by the REAL Starsky and Hutch, so even if the rest isn't good, you at least get that. But, you can't say they totally ruined the show if you haven't seen the movie for yourself. Because I don't believe you.
OH! I just remembered a really recent one that I liked! Surviving Christmas. It was totally excellent and funny, and not a Christmas movie like Elf or Bad Santa. I recommend that you rent that one--It came to the stores pretty quickly. If nothing else, you at least get to see Catherine O'Hara (Maybe that's a bad thing--Bwaha!). It's a good Christmas movie.
And, for the record, the dad in Elf was SUPPOSED to be rich to show us how miserly he was--And that family and love is more important than a high-paying job!
[ 29. January 2005, 08:58: Message edited by: Obscurus Lupa ]
Posted by Ronnie (Member # 465) on :
hey loopy lupa, i like the HUZZAH
i think there are some good suggestions here. there are a lot of comedies out these days that are fun movies.
ELF is excellent. i still have to buy that one. after watching that movie, i feel good, because if anything, it made me smile.
Posted by Obscurus Lupa (Member # 2700) on :
Ronnie-- Bwaha! I've heard so many weird variations of my name, I read "loopy lupa" as "poopy loopy." Huzzah is a fun word, though. Posted by Obscurus Lupa (Member # 2700) on :
Thanks, Jabeen. Goofball comedies are great. Thinking is hard sometimes. Posted by McFly (Member # 354) on :
I thought the premise for The Ring was great, it just wasn't carried in the direction that would've got me.
I kinda like Wedding Singer and Waterboy, but they just couldn't sustain themselves. His earlier, threadbare stuff like Madison or Gilmore, ten minutes of that was enough.
Same with Ace Ventura, or Dumb and Dumber, some great moments, but it's too sporadic to make me wanna buy the dvd.
Saw a thing in an entertainment mag that the 80s are still the most lucrative in box office history when inflation is taken into account. There were dozens of 300 million dollar movies, when adjusted, would make reach a billion these days, which floored me. I hadn't been to a movie in so long, I was unaware that it's 9.75!!! for a non-matinee.
The 90s apparently only had half of the 80s $300 million+ total. They went on to say todays movies open huge, but drop off quicker than ever. Back in the 80s they opened modest and repeat business went on for months.
Posted by The Wizard (Member # 533) on :
quote:Originally posted by mamamiasweetpeaches: Ugh. Hated THE RING so much I rented RINGU...just to prove to myself it must have lost something in translation. Hated that too. THE CURSE was one of the worst movies I saw last year. Wont bother renting its original. Other Oriental snooze-fests: THE EYE, and ....oh...cant even remember the name of the one set in an all-girl school where a ghost travels the corridors. I am so fed up I refuse to see any new pictures. I buy my old favorites on dvd and just watch those.
No new movies... so you won't ever see "Suicide Club"? or "Brother"? or "Battle Royale"? (1 & 2)
Posted by Devolution (Member # 1731) on :
Devolution here,
Battle Royale didn't do that much for me. I saw it, conceptually it was a good idea, but I guess it lost something in the build up.
I will say this much, because I haven't said anything yet. If I could walk away from a movie and not be disappointed that I rented it or spent money on it in the movies or even wasted 2 hours by watching it then I consider it a bonus. 80's movies are great, but I tend to agree with the rest of the people on here that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Going back and seeing something that you thought was great and it turns out to be terrible could take away from how cool some of these 80's movies were. I am not asking for movies to be as cool as Fast Times, as scary as Pet Semetary, or as hypnotic as the Empire Strikes Back. I just want to be entertained and not disappointed. The last movie that blew my mind was Terminator 2. I can't think of anything that great since then.
We are DEVO
Posted by Nomisdrol (Member # 2688) on :
I have a question for Isis.
Time and time again you complain when people start a thread that you know will court controversy and will get some form of debate.
So why is it then that time and time again you start a thread claiming how bad everything is today when you know it will court controversy and will get some form of debate???
Noms Posted by stitch groover (Member # 2895) on :
My ideal job is to be a film critic, but I don't think I'd be very good because I like almost everything I see! Few films offer the complete package, but there is usually something to appreciate, be it some great acting (I especially love great eye acting), beautiful cinematography, interesting direction, symbolism etc...
For example, I watched "Crossroads" with Britney Spears. I didn't mind it actually, and I thought Britney's acting wasn't too bad at all. Sure it was cliche ridden and was probably directed by a chimp, but I still found something to enjoy.
The only films I can say I absolutely dislike are "The English Patient" and "Random Hearts". My freaking God, they are so boring that they sapped me of the will to live.
Posted by if u build it they will come (Member # 2368) on :
there are loads of films i loved from every decade but you`re right about dvd`s not playing they just stop and that`s it end of film HATE THAT cd`s too argh it`s annoying with old tapes you could just fast forward abit and it would play again. i still have a tape player in my car and i`ve been through my boxes of tapes and listening to them again at the moment i`ve got new kids on the block and billy joel on. Funny thing is it that i`m still enjoying them. Posted by isis9968 (Member # 1780) on :
I did watch a movie last night on regular TV that was new and I liked. It was Unfaithful with Richard Gere and Diane Lane. I thought it was done really well, I thought their acting was really good, I thought for a family in today's world they were really showing a pretty good view of today's family. The whole wind storm thing that got her to meet the guy she had the affair with , that was a bit over the top, but I thought it was very sad, I loved Richard Gere's character in it. I didn't expect to really like it at all, and I am sure they edited it out alot, cause it seemed pretty bad in some places.
I don't start threads to cause "heated" debates. You should be able to say you don't like something, and not make people go off the deep end. There's tons of stuff people talk about on here and lots of movies from the 80's too-that alot of people love that I wouldn't watch again, but so what. I think discussing today's movies should be allowed, because we all love movies, that is really the only part of the 80's we all keep alive, and music, because other things I have talked about are just memories of things that will never be the same for me ever. So, I think when so many of us come here every day, and we all sort of know the main people on here, and we are living in 2005, it is kind of hard to not discuss the fact that we are bombarded with 2005's movies, and to say what you think of that ,I don't think is such a big deal.
[ 30. January 2005, 09:45: Message edited by: isis9968 ]
Posted by Obscurus Lupa (Member # 2700) on :
It's good that you saw a new movie and liked it.
Another good one from the last five years I just remembered was 50 First Dates (I know, Sandler again, but it's not like he's speaking gibberish and getting drunk in it. ).
Posted by PaulShrimpton (Member # 1022) on :
Isis / Noms, good posts....
Rule of thumb is, you can say you do/don't like something, and you can disagree all you like. As soon as you say that the other person "is a ****** because you disagree with me, and your opinion isn't worth ****!" (sorry for the ****'s!) then that's when it all gets heated and out of control, and where Devo, Nick or I step in.
If everyone remembers this, then there should be very few topics, and opinions, that need avoiding.
To be fair to Noms, the title of the thread is one that will court a reaction, but also to be fair to Isis, as the thread progresses, you've actually admitted not hating ALL new movies......
Check-mate!
Posted by Obscurus Lupa (Member # 2700) on :
Jabeen- I'm 15 now. Boo-yah! But yeah, good movie.
Posted by isis9968 (Member # 1780) on :
Thanks Paul...I don't actually mean Hate, like it is being taken as, I mean it as in....new movies irritate the heck out of me, and McFly said it perfectly several times too, how let down you feel, and like you wasted your time and money, and nobody likes that feeling. I just have not felt like I am getting my Movies worth, ya know what I mean. I mean, you all know whatever your favorite movie is, that you can watch it a million times, and it always puts you in a better mood, and you really get your "movie's" worth out of it. I just have not found a movie worth buying that I feel like it would be one that I'd watch over and over and get the feeling I do when I watch one I love. They just make me mad, because there are so many un answered questions, the plot is terrible, the characters don't connect with each other,or the plot is a downer, it is over done with CGI effects, or it is a cruddy remake of a movie that the first one wasn't ever any good.
Posted by cindymancini (Member # 679) on :
Some of my picks for "new" movies that I liked were:
Closer Mona Lisa Smile Along Came Polly Secretary Kill Bill Vol. 1 & 2 Saved
[ 30. January 2005, 21:44: Message edited by: cindymancini ]
Posted by Ronnie (Member # 465) on :
well, your 'disappointment' or 'dislike' for modern movies...among other things in life, is nothing new to me or most of the posters on this board. but it was nice of everyone to give you some suggestions, at least.
Posted by McFly (Member # 354) on :
This thread has "controversey"? Seems pretty level-headed to me.
Compared to some of the other stuff I've seen around here.
Posted by Ronnie (Member # 465) on :
ok, i saw cellular last night. not great, but had funny moments. kim bassinger was yuk though. her part annoyed me. i couldn't tell if i was watching a suspensful movie, or a comedy. 1 1/2 stars out of 3.
Posted by HipsterMom27 (Member # 2161) on :
So sorry to join the discussion so late, especially since my name was so fondly mentioned early on in this thread. It's nice to be so warmly remembered, even though I was far away in a warm place as the northeastern US battled a nasty cold spell.
Thanks to Hainster, Steven, Mammamia, Stitch, Noms, et al, for keeping it real on my behalf.
I will be thinking of all of you this coming weekend while viewing "Hotel Rwanda" at my favorite alternative cinema house...such 'crap' they keep putting out these days, but who wants to stay in now that the weather is nearly at freezing.
Posted by Ralph Goodsen (Member # 2413) on :
there are a couple of good movies that were made in the 90s. Weekend at Bernies 2, Mystery Date, Goodfellas...
Posted by HipsterMom27 (Member # 2161) on :
There were actually more than a couple of good '90s movies [as well as other decades] if you choose to keep an open mind. For someone who's been watching movies longer than many people here have been alive, my 'favorites' list goes back to the '30s because I'm a cineaste at heart. [snaps to my late Dad, my inspiration]
Some people here spend time looking for the perfect icon to complete their '80s collection...I spend that same amount of time reading about cinema of all eras and anticipating the new stuff. Sundance live on!
Posted by MotleyRulz (Member # 3598) on :
The problem is alotta people just don't give modern movies a chance. Sure there are some rotten tomatoes. As much as I love 80's movies, I can think of several rotten tomatoes from the 80s as well. Some people have to realize that Daniel won't be on screen to deliver that crane kick anymore, Marty won't be plowing through a farmhouse in a DeLorean, etc...Those were truly great moments in 80s movie history. But its bull when u say all current movies are crap. I love the 80s just like everyone else on here. But at the same time, you are limiting yourself when you contend that only 80s movies are worth watching. Million Dollar Baby and Napoleon Dynamite are two of the best modern movies I have saw lately. Maybe you could try giving those a chance even though neither one of them bear 80s nostalgia...
Posted by rocksteadyflamethrower (Member # 1065) on :
Truth be told, I'm open-minded about movies not made in the 80s. "Casablanca" is one of my all-time favorites, for example. I love the classic MGM musicals, and I'm a fan of Disney animated classics like "Snow White And The Seven Dwarves", "Pinocchio" and "Cinderella". The 60s had some great movies...The 70s were great for films with a rough edge and a cynical outlook (Anybody here like the beauty pageant spoof "Smile"?). I'll refer you to the 90s board for a list of faves from that decade. As for movies of this decade, I liked "Moulin Rouge", "Monsters Inc.", "Chicago", "Monster" and "Team America: World Police".
Is that proof that I have an open mind when it comes to movies?
Sincerely,
John Kilduff...The Rock Steady Flamethrower
Posted by HipsterMom27 (Member # 2161) on :
This past weekend, I expanded my movie-watching in several directions.
"Napoleon Dynamite" is sweet...it reminded me of "Lucas" and "My Bodyguard"...teens coming of age with some problems, the whole underdog thing. "You've got a sweet bike."
"Hotel Rwanda" is damn near harrowing and equally provocative...I remember feeling this way during and after "The Killing Fields." There is very little bloodshed in this movie, despite the ever-present anticipation...you will see the impact of violence, the destruction of homes & people...it will make you think & reflect. I feel very strongly about learning from movies, so I always go on-line for some back story.
I also watched a movie from about 1940 that I had never seen, but I miss not having my dad around anymore to talk about those old flicks.
And "The Goonies" was on HBO!
Posted by Denise Jenner (Member # 3152) on :
Um i would like to point out that there have been alot of great movies in the 90's and beyond like lord of the rings and titanic and such.Those were great films and i might add that the movies these days are way better than in the 80's like better special effects and such.Don't dog on something you know nothing about.
Posted by Bionic Bigfoot (Member # 2490) on :
I'm just a movie FREAK!!! There are movies I love from every decade. I love modern movies too. Some of the stories they can tell today thanks to computers and modern special F/X are amazing and could have never been done in past decades....like The Matrix (I loved the 1st one.) and the Lord Of The Rings movies. What great film making! Those are all among my favorites! Most of my favorites are from the '70s & '80s, but new movies are being added to my personal favorites every year. I loved the Spider-man movies (especially the second one) and The X-Men franchise and The Punisher and independent jewels like Napoleon Dynamite and Whale Rider. I'm open for movies from all decades! I just love movies period. I'm the same about tv. I loved shows from the '70s & '80s live Miami Vice, The A-Team, The Dukes Of Hazzard and Knight Rider....They are among my favorites of all times, but I have also enjoyed many, many tv shows since then. Right now I am a huge Alias and Lost freak! I also watch Smallville, the new Battlestar Galactica and sometimes Enterprise and The Dead Zone. I think each and every generation and decade contributes awesome movies/tv shows & pop culture to the world. I can't wait to see what comes out next! This summer looks awesome as far as movies go. I am greatly anticipating seeing Batman Begins, The Fantastic 4 and King Kong!
Posted by StevenHW (Member # 509) on :
HipsterMom27 wrote, in part:
quote:...I also watched a movie from about 1940 that I had never seen, but I miss not having my dad around anymore to talk about those old flicks.
I am not like dear ol' Dad, but you can always talk to ME about old classic Hollywood flicks from the 30's and 40's!
I myself am trying to catch up on them. For instance, I rented a couple of 40's classics: Glenn Ford and Rita Hayworth in "Gilda" (1946), and Bogie and Bergman in "Casablanca" (1942), which I never saw all the way through before...until last week! Posted by Lele (Member # 3827) on :
90's movie I liked was Interview with a Vampire. There were lots of great moments in that movie.
A more recent movie I loved was Spirited Away. This movie started my new found love of Japanese Anima.
Everybody should also see the Notebook. I am not a big fan usually of sappy dramas but this movie was great.
Personally I love Horror movies.
W
Posted by bigworld (Member # 3107) on :
[QUOTE]
On the horror movie side - mammamia, have you seen The Ring? A Hollywood remake of an (even scarier) movie from Japan. I'm not big on horror movies, and went to watch this without really knowing that it was horror, and deeply regrettet having watched it (during the sleepless night I had afterwards ).
Have you seen The Eye its a horror film from Japan and its superb. Its a bit like the Sixth Sence in it's subject (not story) this is one seriously creepy movie. I got it on Play.com quite cheap it worth having a look!
Posted by Ronnie (Member # 465) on :
the notebook was a pretty decent movie. i thought a walk to remember based on another novel by nicolas sparks, was better.
Posted by Bionic Bigfoot (Member # 2490) on :
I just saw Million Dollar Baby. Man, what an impact! That movie caught me completely off guard. I went in expecting to see a female version of Rocky and came out seeing a powerful character driven drama that took a direction that wasn't about boxing, but about choices and struggles and misfortune. I think it is very deserving of an Oscar. More than one even. Go see it.
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but it's great comedy, and i happen to love it too. ![[Cool]](cool.gif)
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