It’s been a memorable year for Jeff Bridges. He won his first Oscar back in March, is currently starring in the number one flick at the box office and is receiving more Academy Award buzz for his role in the remake of True Grit, which opens today. At 61, he in the midst of a career renaissance and is finally garnering the attention he has long deserved.

Looking over his filmography, I forgot just how many excellent movies he has appeared in throughout his 50-plus year career. It’s impossible to jam all his amazing performances into one Top Ten list because he’s had at least twenty that are worthy of inclusion. So, in no particular order, here are ten that I personally believe stand out from the pack.

10. Thunderbolt and Lightfoot (1974)

As the titular Lightfoot to Clint Eastwood’s Thunderbolt, Bridges steals the movie as a young, brash petty thief who joins Eastwood’s gang to rob an armored car company’s safe. He creates an endearing and ultimately tragic character in a very underrated heist flick.

9. Against All Odds (1984)

As washed-up football player Terry Brogan, Bridges assumes a leading man role opposite the incredibly sexy Rachel Ward. It combines elements of noir, romance and mystery into what amounts to a guilty pleasure. The best word to describe his character would be “visceral.” Lots of brawn with very little brains.

8. The Contender (2000)

It’s not easy to play a US President, but Bridges nails the part displaying the necessary confidence and charm befitting the leader of the free world. His final speech might be a tad melodramatic, but it’s delivered in an impassioned tone that screams, well, presidential.

7. The Last Picture Show (1971)

The movie that put him on the map is a compelling tale about leaving behind the innocent glory days of high school and treading the frightening mindfield of adulthood. A fresh-faced Bridges shines portraying the popular kid who conceals his insecurities behind a handsome face.

6. Tucker: The Man and His Dream (1988)

Automobile innovator and entrepreneur Preston Tucker was a man ahead of his time. His crusade to introduce the “car of tomorrow” to the masses before the Big Three automakers was met with opposition and accusations of fraud. Bridges presents Tucker as a determined soul undone by blind ambition. He’s the best thing in an otherwise ho-hum movie.

5. Starman (1984)

Bridges received a Best Actor Oscar nomination playing an alien lifeform that crash lands on Earth. His evolution from blue ball of energy to caring human being is a marvel to watch. Along with E.T., Starman sets itself apart from most alien sci-fi movies by showing the “visitors” to be peaceful, rather than malicious.

4. Crazy Heart (2009)

Bridges earned his first Oscar as “Bad” Blake, a fading former country music star who tries to shed his alcoholic, irresponsible ways after falling for a young journalist. He shows credible singing chops and transforms himself into a troubled but likable character worth rooting for.

3. Fearless (1993)

Perhaps his most underrated performance, Bridges plays a plane crash survivor who rejects his old life and views himself as immortal. His acting operates on an almost ethereal level. He’s so convincing it makes you want to scream ‘Wake up!” at the screen.

2. The Big Lebowski (1998)

His most recognizable and iconic role has him portraying a professional slacker named Jeff Lebowski, aka “The Dude,” who becomes embroiled in a strange case of mistaken identity. Not known for comedy, Bridges doesn’t miss a beat in a hilarious spin that gains more respect with each additional viewing.

1. The Fabulous Baker Boys (1989)

Bridges manages to juggle prick and pathos as a tormented, chain-smoking jazz pianist who withdraws into a cocoon of self-loathing instead of facing his demons. Michelle Pfeiffer earned most of the praise for her amazing turn as lonely singer Susie Diamond, but Bridges is brilliant as the complex Jack Baker.

Director Darren Aronofsky’s highly anticipated thriller Black Swan opens today. If the early buzz is on point, it should be a leading contender at next year’s Oscars. I’ve purposely avoided most of the teasers, trailers and preview articles so as not to spoil the mystery. However, I’ve been privy to enough details to know it’s a flick worth seeing. Here are ten reasons why you should dip into your wallet to check out Black Swan.

10. That klepto Winona Ryder is in it – Remember when Winona was the “it girl” in Hollywood? I’ve done way too many drugs since then to recall myself, but at one time she was in everything and cute as a button. Now she’s pushing 40 and has been relegated to minor roles like playing Spock’s mommy in the Star Trek reboot. Still single, she recently declared she’s in the market for a husband. Maybe she can steal one from another woman.

9. Aronofsky’s films always look awesome – He’s only helmed four previous flicks, but each of them is a visual marvel. He knows where to place a camera and when to move it. If the early images are any indication, it appears he nailed the dark creepy atmosphere to perfection.

8. It’s about ballet – No, seriously. How many ballet plots have you seen on the big screen? I dig movies that explore worlds I know nothing about and I sure as sh*t know nada about ballet, except the lads and ladies have to wear tights and dance on their tippy toes.

7. Black swans are cool – The charcoal colored plumage. The scarlet red beak. The long, majestic neck. It’s a beautiful animal to behold, symbolizing guile and sensuality.

6. Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis share a love scene – Call me superficial, but watching a couple smokin’ hot brunettes lock lips and roll around naked is bonerific. To be completely honest, I’d pay twice the price of admission to get a gander Nat and Mila go lesbian. Here’s hoping it’s not ruined with pesky body doubles.

5. Two words: Vincent Cassel – All you subtitle haters are probably unfamiliar with Cassel’s work. Too bad. The Paris-born thespian has been killin’ it since 1995′s La Haine. If you’re not squeamish, watch Irreversible and Sheitan to see Cassel at his very best. He’s also hitched to the gorgeous Monica Bellucci. Lucky guy.

4. It’s only 107 minutes – I dunno about you, but I’m getting perturbed by all these needlessly overlong movies. Bigger ain’t always better when it comes to run-time. The ability to tell a complete story in less than two hours seems to be a lost art.

3. It’s really weird – By all accounts, Black Swan is one strange trip. Cassel even compared it to the early films of David Cronenberg. Excellent. If you’re bored with all the cookie cutter choices at the multiplex, then this should be right in your wheelhouse.

2. Two words: Mila Kunis – My fingers are crossed this will catapult the very capable and very sexy Kunis into A-list territory. She’s done comedy and action, so I’m intrigued to discover how she handles drama.

1. Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis share a love scene – Did I mention this already? Well, it’s worth reiterating. Call me sleazy, but watching a couple raven-haired lovelies grope and fondle one another is erectastic.

It’s easy, and at times completely justifiable, to focus on the negative aspects of modern day cinema. Jennifer Aniston romantic comedies, overblown superhero flicks, pointless remakes and the fact that Rob Schneider is still allowed to work in Hollywood are all things worth lamenting. However, it’s Thanksgiving, so what better time to take a reprieve from the bashing and celebrate the good, rather than the bad, at the movies. As dedicated film lovers, here are ten things we should all be thankful for on the big screen.

10. Successful Franchises

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, Batman, Harry Potter, Bourne Series, etc. It’s all golden when the perfect storm of writers, directors and actors come together to produce a well-executed mega franchise. Anyone can milk a cash cow, e.g. Twilight and Saw, but the ability to deliver a series of films that resonate is a true test of quality filmmaking.

9. Up and Coming Actresses

Natalie Portman, Emily Blunt, Ellen Page, Evan Rachel Wood, Carey Mulligan. The list is long and accomplished. In a male dominated industry, it’s nice to see such a talented group of actresses under 30 landing significant roles in excellent movies.

8. Pixar

Not all of Pixar’s offerings have been unforgettable, but when they hit the sweet spot it results in a grand slam home run. Up received a Best Picture nomination; WALL-E should’ve gotten one. The groundbreaking animation studio is responsible for some of the highest grossing and most entertaining films of all time.

7. Low Budget Gems

Films like The Hurt Locker and Precious both found audiences and recognition despite being produced for less than $20 million. In the era of 3D and caped crusaders, it’s nice to know smaller projects are still able to make some headway at the multiplex.

6. Robert Downey Jr.’s Resurgence

Actors like Downey don’t come along very often. He’s versatile, bold and seems to genuinely enjoy what he does. His comeback from alcohol/drug addiction saved his life and resurrected his career. Lots of guys could play Tony Stark and Sherlock Holmes, but few could match Downey’s panache.

5. The M. Night Shyamalan Backlash

Not that any more proof was needed, but The Last Airbender solidified M. Night’s reign as the most overrated filmmaker working today. Each chapter in the book of Shyamalan is more ridiculous than the last. Trashing him has become passé, but that doesn’t make it any less fun, or appropriate.

4. Leonardo DiCaprio

He chooses smart scripts and collaborates with great directors. He can carry a film at the box office and rarely delivers a false performance. One of these days the Academy will come to their senses and give him the Oscar he so rightfully deserves. Very few actors possess his skill-set.

3. Netflix Watch Instantly

It’s not the same as sitting in a surround sound digital theater, but the opportunity to “legally” download a new or old flick at the click of a mouse is an incredibly convenient and amazing advancement. Especially for those of us who enjoy writing about film.

2. Awful Nic Cage Movies

Nic’s recent resume is chock-full of ghastly goodness like The Wicker Man, Ghost Rider, Next, Knowing, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and the upcoming Drive Angry, which is in the running for worst title of the year (along with Love and Other Drugs). Cage has mastered the art of overacting in shamelessly terrible movies to such a degree that he warrants our undying admiration.

1. Christopher Nolan

A catalog that includes Memento, The Prestige, The Dark Knight and Inception puts Nolan in select company when it comes to original writer/directors who can do no wrong. Legit auteurs make films their way and ignore the nonsense from fanboys and critics. In a business that demands conformity, Christopher Nolan stands out for being uniquely his own.

The latest alien invasion flick invades theaters across the land today. It’s called Skyline, which is a ridiculously stupid title that sounds more appropriate for a line of luggage than it does a sci-fi blockbuster. However, it wasn’t the only name attached to the movie during pre-production. Before settling on Skyline, the creative brain trust considered several other monikers which may or may not have been worse than the one they went with. Here are ten of those rejected titles.

10. Independence Day 2

Too obvious and ultimately, illegal. Evidently ID4 filmmakers are deluded enough to believe a “real” sequel starring Will Smith will happen at some point. Good luck with that.

9. Not That Alien Invasion Movie, The Other One

Directors the Brothers Strause worked on visual effects for another alien invasion movie set in LA,  Battle: Los Angeles, while shooting Skyline. I’m no lawyer, but that sounds a bit fishy.

8. Holy Sh*t! Aliens Are Eating Us

Can’t all the species in the universe just get along? Wait, it’s Los Angeles. Never mind. I wasn’t thinking.

7. The Alien Invasion Movie With That Guy From Scrubs

Donald Faison. Funny guy. I can’t wait to see him kick some alien arse. Although it won’t be the same without J.D. at his side.

6. Toy Story 4

Everything Pixar touches turns into box office gold, so why not piggyback the summer heat of Toy Story 3 while it’s still sizzling? Looks great on paper, but again, totally illegal.

5. The Alien Invasion Movie Not From the Mind of M. Night Shyamalan

Remember Signs? The Skyline filmmakers sure as hell do. In order to distance themselves from the world’s most overrated writer/director, they almost went with this verbose title. It would’ve gotten my vote.

4. Vampire Aliens From Outer Space

In order to capitalize on the growing popularity of bloodsuckers, this seems like a no-brainer. It sounds awesome, but has too much of a B-movie feel to it.

3. The West Coast Cloverfield

More of a working title. Thankfully, the left coast alien invaders look a lot cooler than the idiotic praying mantis thing that trashed the Big Apple.

2. The Day the Earth Got Into a War of the Worlds

This only works if either Keanu Reeves or Tom Cruise is cast as the lead. Sorry, but Eric Balfour can’t hang with Neo and Maverick.

1. District 90210

Hands down, my favorite. It’s appealing to both the young male and young female demographics. It also screams alien invasion in Hollywood.

127 Hours, director Danny Boyle’s taut depiction of real life rock climber Aron Ralston’s harrowing tale of survival, opens today. By most accounts, the film and James Franco’s performance are being labeled among the best of 2010. There have been plenty of excellent flicks based on real life events produced throughout the years. Eliminating straight biopics like Capote and Ray, here are ten memorable movies inspired by or drawn from the drama of real life.

10. Eight Men Out (1988)

This detailed dramatization of the infamous 1919 Black Sox scandal that rocked America features a terrific cast and pinpoint direction by indie auteur John Sayles. It’s a fascinating exploration into the dark underbelly of professional baseball, and a sad statement about the lengths some will go to for money.

9. In Cold Blood (1967)

Based on famed author Truman Capote’s book of the same name, the film follows the events leading up to and after the Kansas murders committed by Perry Smith and Richard Hickock. The black and white cinematography is both beautiful and chilling. Robert Blake and Scott Wilson stand out playing the killers.

8. Into the Wild (2008)

In 1990, college graduate Christopher McCandless traded in a predictable existence to live in the Alaskan wilderness alone. His journey is one of self-discovery, enlightenment and tragedy. Emile Hirsch shines in the lead role and writer/director Sean Penn crafts a thought-provoking look at an unconventional life.

7. Midnight Express (1978)

Hash smuggler Billy Hayes’ five-year incarceration in a Turkish prison during the 1970s is told in unflinching fashion by director Alan Parker and writer Oliver Stone. Leaving aside some glaring embellishments, it’s a powerful story about one man’s fight for freedom.

6. Bully (2001)

A disturbing expose about the murder of a high school bully by a group of vengeful “friends.” Director Larry Clark pulls no punches in this portrayal of misguided youth and the intolerable cruelty people are capable of inflicting on one another. Nick Stahl impresses in the titular role.

5. The Amityville Horror (1979)

While the validity of what actually occurred in the house on 112 Ocean Avenue is open for debate, what isn’t is the creepy atmosphere created by director Stuart Rosenberg in this bleak documentation of the paranormal goings-on at the notorious Long Island address. It’s spooky good.

4. The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)

A brilliant psychological examination into the mind of legendary outlaw Jesse James and the man who would eventually end his life, Robert Ford. Writer/director Andrew Dominik takes a modernist approach to the subject matter, eschewing normal Western conventions. Casey Affleck steals the movie playing Ford.

3. Serpico (1973)

Al Pacino delivers arguably his best performance as detective Frank Serpico, who exposed mass corruption in the NYC police department during the late ’60s and early ’70s. It’s one of the finest examples of pure crime drama ever made about one of the most intriguing historical figures of the last forty years.

2. Boys Don’t Cry (1999)

The engrossing story of transgendered man Brandon Teena, who was raped and murdered in 1993, earned Hilary Swank a Best Actress Oscar. Themes of identity, isolationism and intolerance are prevalent throughout, as are the unrealistic expectations of so-called romantic love.

1. All the President’s Men (1976)

This first-rate political thriller meticulously peels back the layers of the onion uncovered by neophyte investigative journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein during the Watergate scandal. Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman turn in outstanding performances, and director Alan J. Pakula expertly steers the serpentine plot to dark and mysterious places.

When you’ve seen as many horror movies as I have, you become very adept at separating the winners from the losers. It’s easy to spot classics and even easier to identify trash. While it might seem like the genre is chock-full of hackneyed offerings, there are just as many quality flicks floating below the radar that are worth a look. Just in time for Halloween, here are ten underrated horror films that should not be missed.

10. Diary of the Dead (2007)

Combining elements of Cloverfield and 28 Days Later, George Romero’s modern zombie apocalypse lacks the punch of his previous chapters, but the biting social commentary about humanity’s desire to destroy itself is still present. The documentary-style shooting adds tension, and the numerous scenes of gruesome death should satisfy die-hard fans of the genre.

9. Black Christmas (1974)

As far as ‘deranged psychopath murders sorority girls’ movies go, this is one of the very best. It’s not especially gory, but the creepy/disturbing vibe is off the charts. Hacking ‘n’ slashing is for amateurs; a real maniac knows how to freak his victims out with unnerving phone calls. The director, Bob Clark, also helmed Porky’s and A Christmas Story. Go figure.

8. Shiver (2008)

There’s something committing horrific murders in the woods surrounding a tiny Spanish village. Is it animal, human or something else? The plot is interesting and the scares legit. It plays more like a mystery than a straightforward horror movie, but there’s still a fair amount of blood and chills to please those who require that sorta stuff when viewing films of this ilk.

7. The Signal (2007)

This low budget sleeper is about a strange television transmission that renders all who hear it insane. It’s one part dark comedy, two parts love story and 100% bad to the bone. The gore and violence is through the roof, and like Romero’s work, there’s some meaty subtext about the downfall of society. Overall, it’s a solid little shocker perfect for a dark rainy night.

6. Don’t Look Now (1973)

It’s probably a stretch to call this underrated because it’s considered by most to be a righteous flick. That being said, I’m of the belief it’s deserving of much higher praise. Nicolas Roeg directs what amounts to a psychological torture chamber involving a dead little girl, a pair of weird sisters, a serial killer and a mysterious stranger dressed in a red raincoat. It’s bonkers, but in a good way.

5. Ginger Snaps (2000)

Most werewolf movies are about guys turning into hirsute creatures of the night. Not Ginger Snaps. It flips the script by placing a hot high school chick in the role of devil dog, and the results are wicked cool. There’s a clever metaphor comparing her transformation to puberty, but the real appeal are the buckets of blood and entrails that permeate the screen from start to finish.

4. Wendigo (2001)

This spooky chiller is set in a remote cabin in Upstate New York, which happens to be home to a mythical Indian beast called the Wendigo. There’s a definite Evil Dead feel to the story, what with the cabin locale and supernatural forces that dwell in the woods. It’s not entirely clear if the Wendigo is real or imagined, which adds a little zest to the otherwise standard plot.

3. Dog Soldiers (2002)

Another cabin in the woods. This time it’s a squad of rugged British soldiers waging war with a vicious family of giant lycanthropes. It’s taut, action-packed and kicks massive amounts of ass. I liken it a bit to Aliens, except on a much smaller scale. Watching a blood and guts Private box a seven-foot wolfman will do wonders for your Saturday night. See this beauty if you haven’t already.

2. Shock Waves (1977)

It doesn’t get much better than Nazi zombies from the deep. A boat runs aground on a tropical island inhabited by a crazy hermit. Mayhem ensues as a platoon of German super-soldiers emerge from the bowels of a wrecked ship to dispose of the new arrivals. It’s slow moving, but the premise is so outrageous it has to be seen to be believed. Added bonus: a young Brooke Adams in a yellow bikini.

1. Session 9 (2001)

I don’t find many horror films to be truly scary, but this one creeps me out every time I catch it. An asbestos clean up crew takes a job at an abandoned loony bin and all hell proceeds to break loose. Eerie isn’t a strong enough word to describe this terrifying tale. The ending will leave you unsettled for days. It’s an underrated flick by an underrated director, Brad Anderson.

]]> http://flicksided.com/2010/10/ten-underrated-horror-movies/feed/ 1 http://flicksided.com/2010/10/top-10-haunted-house-films-to-watch-this-halloween/ http://flicksided.com/2010/10/top-10-haunted-house-films-to-watch-this-halloween/#comments Thu, 28 Oct 2010 23:08:55 +0000 Mike Kujak http://flicksided.com/?p=12315

In honor of my favorite holiday of the year, here’s The Top 10 Haunted House Films. I know what you’re thinking. What a creative and unique list for the Halloween season. Nobody’s ever thought of writing this list up for this weekend! Seriously though, the only list that’s been done more this week is “Scariest Films of All Time”…which is laughably broad and pointless because of its subjectivity.

I also wanted to get a list of ten horror films that you should watch instead of Paranormal Activity 2 or Saw-3D this weekend. Watching horror films on Halloween isn’t about going to the theater and swallowing whatever producers think is the latest scare. Halloween is about cuddling up in the dark at the home, turning off the cell phones and watching something truly horrifying with friends.

All reviews are short, sweet and 100 words or less. No, I didn’t count Ghostbusters as a haunted house film. Yes, I look for any excuse to write about that movie. No, I don’t regret including it. Yes, it’s probably best if we just moved onto the list…

Enjoy.

10. The Amityville Horror (1979)

It might not be the most technically impressive film but it has other strengths that make it worthy of this list. It’s didn’t invent the haunted house but it’s certainly set the standard for creepy. I rarely go in Colonial Dutch houses anymore because of it. The house isn’t even really in bad condition. It just looks like it’s alive. It’s a very claustrophobic film because its characters are inside “the monster” the entire film. All they need to do is step outside and things usually get better. The original and remake are both safe bets for a creepy evening if that’s what you’re looking for.

9. The Grudge (2004)

Casper the Friendly Ghost got ghost children all wrong. They’re not friendly. They’re actually worse than regular ghosts. They can fit in small places and they’re innocence is transformed into some kind of pure evil that’s just terrifying. The plot is simple and effective. The children are mad as hell that they died and they’re not going to take it anymore. Sorry living people who occupy the house, your fucked. If you can get your hand on the Japanese original “Ju-on” it’s definitely got a bit stronger story but the American version is almost as effective.

8. The Changeling (1980)

Warning: Don’t confuse this with the Clint Eastwood movie. It’s a horrifying but depressing movie that has nothing to do ghosts or houses of an evil nature. This is the only film I had to revisit for the list. It really earns its scares and was an obvious influence for films like The Shining. I understand that it’s a mansion instead of house but I think we can group mansions, hotels and houses into the same list. The isolation is the important factor and this film has plenty. It’s the least popular film on the list and it’s worth a try if you’ve seen all the other bigger names on the list.

7. Beetle Juice (1988)

It’s the best Haunted House comedy out there if you’re looking for something lighter to watch. However it’s not the funniest. Most poorly-made supernatural scares are funnier to me than any intentional comedies (The Haunting remake comes to mind). The film is anchored by three great performances Geena Davis, Alec Baldwin and especially Michael Keaton, who really knows how to put on a show. They all know what kind of movie they’re in and it makes for a fun ride. In a weird way, Tim Burton even has some interesting commentary on life after death and how acceptance is essential.

6. The Haunting (1963)

This film is a victim to time and will seem very dated to today’s audience. However, it’s still essential to the genre of “they’ve bitten off more than they can chew” horror films. It’s a lot like an episode of GhostHunters gone wrong. And by wrong I simple mean, they’re actually are real ghosts in the house. The film also greatly grew my appreciation for the use of black and white. It’s used perfectly in this film and combined with that lethal dose of a creepy score it’ll still take you somewhere you don’t want to be if it’s dark enough outside.

5. The Others (2001)

The fear of what goes unseen is a powerful tool. Critics talk about it all the time and while it might seem like we’re always covering old ground. However,  there is a reason. The quick and easy scare films come out ever year. The buckets of blood and guts film are seen every year. Rarely, in the last decade have we gotten horror films with such control and knowledge of the genre. It owes most of its success to its classic influences like The Innocents, but still deserves credit for striving for something higher in a time when cheap thrills were almost universal in major Hollywood productions.

4. The Orphanage (2007)

Prediction: This will be labeled classic horror in the years to come. It’s a criminally underrated film (Admittedly, the phrase “criminally underrated” is criminally over-used) and I try to spread word of the film any chance I get. It’s the most beautiful haunted house film I’ve ever seen and Belén Rueda as Laura gives one of the best performances I’ve seen in a horror film in many years. It uses the creepy “child with the bag over his head” gag a bit too much but it’s done in the right ways so it doesn’t become bothersome. The film has several scenes that take you to that “It’s only a movie” place and achieves a kind of haunting presences that is scary in a poetic way.

3. Poltergeist (1986)

Where the fuck did this movie come from? It’s like the 80′s suburbia was somehow perfectly wrapped up in a ball, dipped in psycho juice and thrown at the audience. The film is filled with special effects that were groundbreaking then and laughable now. Luckily the film has a Spielberg touch that makes the film very watchable today. It’s a great look at childhood fears and probably is most accurately in portraying what a haunting would be like if they actually occurred. It’s a landmark for the haunted house genre and horror films in general. You’ve probably seen it but if you haven’t, pop in the VHS not the DVD. It just feels better.

2. The Shining (1980)

It’s not the most original or even the scariest haunted house film but after watching it, it’d be hard to argue that it isn’t one of the greatest haunted house films of all time. Kubrick does paranoia but than any director I’ve ever seen and you can’t really get a more interesting protagonist than Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of Jack Torrance. Stephen King is the king of populist horror in the 20^th century and he deserves to have one of his horror novels adapted into a classic (even if he doesn’t like the direction Kubrick went).

1. The Innocents (1961)

I don’t believe in ghosts. I do, however, believe in them when watching this film. It’s exactly what I want when I go back and watch older films. A masterpiece of subtly. It doesn’t have scenes that make you jump out of your chair. It prefers to brand its scares in the back of your mind for days to come. When you close your eyes the next few nights this film is where your mind goes. Not a single honest modern haunted house film can deny it as an influence. The film in one word: Chilling. Your world is colder when watching this film.

What are your favorite haunted house films that I left out?

What are you watching this Halloween?

Paranormal Activity 2 starts today. Considering the original earned a tidy $193 million worldwide, I have no doubt there will be a third chapter next year and maybe even a fourth the year after that. Having seen both flicks, I still don’t get the appeal. Neither is scary or creepy or eerie in the least. They remind me of extended episodes of Syfy Channel’s series Ghost Hunters: interesting for about five minutes, silly for fifteen, then boring the rest of the way. In fact, the Paranormal movies barely register on my personal spooky scale. Here are ten things I find scarier.

10. White Persian Cats

So serene, yet so horrifying. Any creature with murderous eyes should not be trusted.

9. An M. Night Shyamalan Production

Devil was terrible, but it was far more watchable and chilling than either Paranormal installment.

8. Orange Peeps

Spongy and inedible. These sugary abominations give me the willies.

7. Midterm Elections

Tea Party Movement. Obamacrats. It’s a bloodbath out there. Stay away.

6. Boo-Berry Cereal

Even though the Boo-Berry ghost appears to be sh*tfaced and/or high, he’s still oddly frightening.

5. The Fat Albert Halloween Special

Mushmouth in a potato sack. Rudy dressed as a clown. It’s a freaky nightmare.

4. Giant Hamburgers

Abnormally sized food is downright creepy. Especially burgers.

3. Smartphones

Despite being totally awesome, any piece of technology you can’t live without should be feared.

2. Potato Chips With Faces

I once found a chip that was the spittin’ image of Tom Cruise. It was incredibly unnerving.

1. Glee

The overwhelming popularity of Glee terrifies me beyond all comprehension. I wish I was kidding.

]]> http://flicksided.com/2010/10/ten-things-scarier-than-the-paranormal-activity-movies/feed/ 0 http://flicksided.com/2010/09/looking-back-the-films-of-david-fincher/ http://flicksided.com/2010/09/looking-back-the-films-of-david-fincher/#comments Thu, 30 Sep 2010 21:44:22 +0000 Mike Kujak http://flicksided.com/?p=12082

“I don’t know how much movies should entertain. To me, I’m always interested in movies that scar. The thing I love about Jaws is the fact that I’ve never gone swimming in the ocean again.” – David Fincher

The first rule of Fincher’s movies: they’re going to leave a scar. They’re all memorable even if you don’t completely buy into them. In 18 years of filmmaking Fincher hasn’t stopped pushing himself. Constantly delving into new genres and producing bold and significant films in each area he decides to explore. So with the release of his upcoming film The Social Network, we jumped at the chance to review his body of work.

Alien 3 (1992)

Score: 6/10

Fincher was greeted by the film business with a bit of critical flatulence. The first Alien film is classic Sci-Fi and the second is classic Action. Scott and Cameron are a tough act to follow. Yes, this film isn’t much compared to A1 and A2. Yes, it’s got a dumb plot (Aliens…in prison!) that was probably caused by over-reaching monopolizing executives. However, it’s also the darkest film in an already dark franchise and even quite an entertaining horror film if you’re invested in Ripley’s struggle (and who isn’t?). It was the start of the collapse of a great franchise but also the beginning to an amazing career. Most directors enter with a bang and then fade out. Fincher’s debut was simply him warming up.

Se7en (1995)

Score: 9/10

No film is more “Fincher” than Se7en. The lighting is dark, the camera keeps its distance and the entire plot is drenched in a suspenseful despair. The film is hard to watch at times. It’s just so damn evil. Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman give two great performances as they hunt down a killer that might as well be the devil himself. It’s not really a detective film as much as it’s a darker Alice in Wonderland. Of course, because it’s Fincher, the rabbit hole is a pit of insanity where happiness is raped and beaten on a daily basis. At the end of the film, no matter who you are, you’ll be screaming along with Ben Pitt regardless of how many times you’ve seen the film. “What’s in the box? WHAT’S IN THE BOX!?”

The Game (1997)

Score: 4/10

It’s not a fun game to play. In a sense, it’s a very polarizing film. Either you buy into or you don’t. If you do, it’s probably a fun ride. If you don’t then it’s really not worth your time. The plot follows an investment banker who is given a mysterious gift: participation in a game that integrates in strange ways with his life. Oh and don’t worry, there’s a big conspiracy! For me the movie was simply annoying. Michael Douglas and Sean Penn give strong performances but the film lacks any other significant accomplishments. It’s not intelligent. It’s not a brain teaser. The “big twist” isn’t as big as it thinks it is. By the time you figure out it’s not a good movie you’re half way done with the film and just want to get it over with and learn the twist. When it comes it’s underwhelming and very disappointing.

Fight Club (1999)

Score 9/10

You either love it or you hate it. You should love it. Fight Club is about well…a fight club. Anymore details are just spoilers. Admittedly, this movie gets a lot of credit it doesn’t deserve. It’s not philosophically complex. Tyler Durden isn’t a genius or the second coming of Christ. If you really give this film a hard time, it’s kind of a bunch of white males complaining about too much luxury. But holy shit is it a ride. Fincher’s amazing direction and author Chuck Palahniuk’s original vision combined into something that really captured people’s imagination. The twist ending is as good as they come and re-watching the film is ridiculously simple. This film stimulates. It reminds you why you like going to movies.

Panic Room (2002)

Score: 8/10

One of the most interesting aspects of Fincher direction is that he has so much range. Some directors can tackle many different genres like  he has but rarely does the filmmaker have enough power to make something of a different size and scope. He’s playing in a much smaller sandbox this time but makes it entertaining with superb technical skills . Panic Room is a contained thriller. It’s really the most pure form of a thriller you can make (much like the new Ryan Reynolds’s film Buried). It’s about a woman and her teenage daughter  who become imprisoned in the panic room of their own house by 3 criminals. Basically, a very dark take on Home Alone. Except you don’t have Macaulay Culkin. You have Jodie Foster, Kirsten Stewart, a phenomenal Forest Whitaker and even Jared Leto. Fincher is constantly pushing his boundaries and you can’t ask much more from an artist.

Zodiac (2007)

Score: 8/10

It’s a hard film to embrace. Those who do, usually call it his best film. It’s technically impressive and he even found a way to make the entire city of San Francisco haunted. It’s so strange and dark film that it’s actually hard to watch. In the film a San Francisco cartoonist (Gyllenhal) becomes an amateur detective obsessed with tracking down the Zodiac killer. If I could use the “Rabbit-Hole” metaphor again, this film features the character falling almost the entire film only to find out that there isn’t really a bottom. I’ve seen the film multiple times and each time is a less enjoyable experience. Not because it’s bad, it just simply takes something out of you.It doesn’t really scare me much during the actually presentation but it stay with me days after a viewing and I can rarely shake the depression and paranoia. Successful and impressive but beware; it will ruin the brightest of days…

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)

Score: 6/10

Fincher’s latest was a bit underwhelming for me. Strong acting and a unique idea carried this film a long way but something was missing. Now I know what you’re thinking. How was anything missing in a three hour film? You’ve got the Gump-esk storyline with an interesting protagonist and storyline that is both imaginative and complex. The reason I enjoyed this film a tad less than the rest of the critical community was because I feel like it didn’t live up to its potential. The entire journey is very bizarre (and not in a good way) and when we get to the final destination I didn’t feel anything significant. More character time and less cultural references and maybe you could actually get some tears flowing by the end of this odyssey.

Fincher’s film The Social Network has a wide release starting tomorrow. It looks like it could be one of his best. Check back in to Flicksided soon for a review of the film.

From the mind of M. Night Shyamalan… That’s the sentence being used to promote Devil, which opens Friday. It’s the first movie to be released under Shyamalan’s ‘The Night Chronicles’ production shingle, and if it’s anything like his recent cinema offerings, chances are it will be the last episode of the Chronicles.

Now, Shyamalan didn’t write it or direct Devil, so there’s a glimmer of hope it won’t totally blow. However, he did concoct the story and his association with the flick has to be considered a big honking unlucky charm. For those unaware, the movie is a horror/thriller about five people trapped in an elevator — one of whom is Satan. It sounds similar to most of Night’s other plots, in that it’s lacking in substance and complexity.

Devil wasn’t the first idea pitched by Shyamalan. Turns out he attempted to sell a few others before deciding on his hell in an elevator frightmare. Our industrious showbiz insider did some digging and managed to get his grubby mitts on seven of these rejected stories. Let’s take a peek into the mind of M. Night Shyamalan, shall we.

7. Pound

Synopsis: Five animal rights activists trapped inside a dog pound realize one of the pooches is the Devil.

Tagline: It’s a dog-eat-human world.

Why it was rejected: Too much like Cujo.

6. Freezer

Synopsis: Five rambunctious teenagers trapped inside a meat freezer realize one of the cow carcasses is the Devil.

Tagline: Meat your maker.

Why it was rejected: Everyone thought Shyamalan was joking. (Psst, he wasn’t.)

5. Shed

Synopsis: Five construction workers trapped in a tool shed realize one of the hammers is the Devil.

Tagline: Don’t be a tool.

Why it was rejected: Couldn’t agree on the type of hammer. Some wanted claw, others favored a sledge.

4. Porta

Synopsis: Five midgets trapped inside a porta potty realize one of the turds is the Devil.

Tagline: Bad things come in small packages.

Why it was rejected: Too controversial.

3. Dumpster

Synopsis: Five homeless people trapped inside a dumpster realize one of the bags of trash is the Devil.

Tagline: No diving allowed.

Why it was rejected: There was a lighting issue.

2. Cellar

Synopsis: Five farmers trapped in a root cellar realize one of the turnips is the Devil.

Tagline: The root of all evil.

Why it was rejected: Not scary enough.

1. Sauna

Synopsis: Five women trapped inside a sauna realize one of the towels is the Devil.

Tagline: It’ll make you sweat.

Why it was rejected: Too porny.

———–

When all was said and done, Night elected to make one of the characters the Devil. That was probably the way to go, although Porta sounds very intriguing. Wink, wink.