Charlton Heston’s Classic Science Fiction Trifecta!

Movie fans know that one of the industry’s great movie stars was Charlton Heston – everything from “Ben Hur” to a trio of science fiction films that are as great today as when they were released!

Let’s begin with one of the greatest – and most influential – science fiction films ever made!

“Planet Of The Apes!”

This is an enduring classic: Astronauts crash land on a hostile planet – that is run by apes!

Here is the trailer for this 1968 film:

There are so many incredible moments in this film, including one of film’s most shocking endings of all time! You can read more about this classic by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/07/10/planet-of-the-apes-classic-science-fiction-charlton-hestons-masterpiece/

Three years later, Heston returned to science fiction with an adaptation of one of the most successful novels of all time:

“The Omega Man!”

In 1971, Heston’s next science fiction classic was released, based on the iconic 1954 novel “I Am Legend” by Richard Matheson.

Check out the trailer:

The plot is a science fiction classic: Dr. Robert Neville is the only survivor of an apocalyptic war waged with biological weapons. The resulting plague leaves him as “the last man alive” – or so he thinks!

Of course, he ISN’T alone – and soon finds himself in a battle with mutated kinda-zombies in a battle to survive…

According to the terrific website IMDB, Charlton Heston had read the original novel on an airplane, and wanted to make it into a new film….without knowing this:

Heston was unaware that the book had already been made into a film in 1964 called “The Last Man on Earth”, starring another movie legend, Vincent Price.

“You know the old song? If you were the only girl in the world, and I was the only boy, well, okay, but until then, don’t bother me? Well, I guess I’m the only boy…”

One of the interesting social aspects of this 1971 film: Heston has a love affair with an African-American woman in the film – another survivor he meets…a love affair that was eyebrow-raising at that time!

Bravo to all concerned for including this socially-daring casting – inter-racial romance was somewhat taboo in 1971, and I like that their race isn’t discussed int he film – it was natural to assume that the last man and last woman would become romantically involved – their race was never discussed – it was treated as normal, which certainly wasn’t the case at the time…

“Soylent Green” – A Pop Culture Icon!

Two years later, Heston starred in one of science fiction’s enduring classics – and a classic punch line!

Here is the classic trailer for the film, showing life in New York City in 2022!

As you saw in the trailer, by the year 2022, Earth is overpopulated and polluted; our nation is kept alive by new kind of food, provided by Soylent Industries. But is this food REALLY plankton from the oceans?

When an Executive is murdered, a tough NY Detective investigates, and discovers the disturbing secret of the ingredient used to manufacture Soylent Green!

Wait, Soylent Green Is WHAT?!?!?!?!?!

Yes, there’s a secret ingredient in this little green wafers…an ingredient that has become a pop culture phenomenon!

“Soylent Green Is People!”

Sorry if you REALLY didn’t already know, but it is one of the funniest punch lines that lives on from this science fiction classic – you find this line used on T-Shirts, restaurant billboards and more – but here is something about the film that you might not know:

“Soylent Green” Is The Origin Of “Green Day!”

A sign saying “Tuesday is Soylent Green Day” appears in the film. Some people suggest that this inspired the name of the rock band Green Day. The font on the store-front window matches the ones that are used on Green Day’s “Uno”, “Dos”, and “Tres” albums!

So there you have it, Charlton Heston’s “perfect storm” of science fiction classics, all available on demand and blu-ray for you to enjoy!

Shocktober 2016 is off to a great start!

Thanks everyone for reading my first ten posts of the month – it’s Halloween season, and every day I am sharing another “Shocktober” classic!

Day #1 got off to a rousing start with “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” – you can read some great trivia about this seminal film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/01/shocktober-is-here-31-days-of-horror-day-1-slices-up-the-texas-chainsaw-massacre/

For day #2, I offered up the legendary Actor George C. scott is a terrific haunted house movie:

See the classic spooky trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/02/shocktober-2016-haunted-house-the-changeling-spooks-day-2/

I kept it on the classics the first few days, which leads to America’s favorite “Scream Queen!”

Jaime Lee Curtis starred in what many feel is the greatest “Halloween” movie ever – because, well it is called “Halloween!”

I offered up some fun trivia on the film, which you can see here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/03/shocktober-day-3-screams-halloween-scream-queen-jamie-lee-curtis/

Eli Roth paid homage to one of the world’s most shocking films on day #4 – the “under-stated” horror classic:

Read about Roth’s terrific “The Green Inferno” AND the court case brought against the makers of “Cannibal Holocaust” all right here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/04/shocktober-day-4-goes-cannibalistic-enter-the-green-inferno-ei-roths-cannibal-holocaust-homage/

I needed a break from “shocking” – so I went with a different kind of Halloween thrill:

Yes, there are some great Halloween movies that also featured naked Vampires! See all you need to see right here!

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/05/shocktober-day-5-gets-bloody-and-naked-lust-for-a-vampire-erotic-horror-trilogy/

This Halloween season, a real life creepiness is underway – real creepy clown sightings!

I look at this troubling phenomenon – as well as the greatest clown horror films around – right here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/06/real-shocking-creepy-clowns-killer-klowns-shocktober-day-6-is-it-pennywise-is-torn-from-todays-headlines/

Of course, some movies are “great” films, but boy, are they wildly entertaining!

“Pieces” is certainly not a perfect film, but the blu-ray includes a bonus documentary about New York’s notorious 42nd street of the 70’s – see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/07/shocktober-day-7-pieces-of-cult-80s-bloody-halloween-2016-horror/

Back to some classic horror films – one of the best is this one:

“Rosemary’s Baby” is also known as the movie Frank Sinatra divorced Mia Farrow over! Find out why here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/08/shocktober-day-8-satans-spawn-rosemarys-baby-shocks-mia-farrows-marriage/

For day #9 of Shocktober, I decided to highlight one of the most iconic – and bizarre – horror films from the early 70’s:

Christopher Lee in Robin HardyÕs THE WICKER MAN (1973). Courtesy: Rialto Pictures/ Studiocanal

Yes, Christopher Lee has a really big “Wicker Man” behind him – and click on my story to find out why:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/09/shocktober-day-9-the-burning-horror-of-the-wicker-man/

Finally, on day ten I celebrated my friend Sasha Grey’s bloody horror thriller:

Two Legendary Actors Bite Into A Crime!

Here is a great new movie to share: two incredible actors working for one of the most eclectic Writer/Directors in film…and of course, it comes with a bit of controversy!

Talk About “Dog Eat Dog!”

Nicolas Cage and Willem Dafoe star in “Dog Eat Dog” for Director Paul Schrader.

Schrader is no stranger to controversy in his career, but here is a social media post he shared discussing what happened with his 2014 collaboration with Nicolas Cage:

“The Angel Dust Of Crime Fiction!”

Talk about saying it like it is! It’s well known that the film was taken away from Schrader, and he disavowed the final release. He also reached out to Nicolas Cage to ask him for another collaboration, this time to “get it right!”

The result of that call is “Dog Eat Dog”, based on the 1995 novel of same name by Edward Bunker, the late great Writer – and “Mr. Blue” in Quentin Tarantino’s classic crime drama “Reservoir Dogs!”

So Schrader had great material to work with, and two great Actors that he’s collaborated with before. Here is the trailer….

The plot is simple: A crew of ex-cons are hired by a Cleveland mafioso to kidnap the baby of a rival mobster. From there, things spin quickly out of control.

This is Schrader’s third collaboration with Nicolas Cage – Schrader previously wrote Scorsese’s “Bringing Out the Dead” as well as the controversial “Dying of the Light”.

This is the 7th collaboration between Paul Schrader and Willem Dafoe!

Schrader’s Movie Debut!

Here is great trivia from IMDB:

“Paul Schrader said he approached Michael Wincott, Michael Douglas, Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorsese, Nick Nolte, Christopher Walken, Jeff Goldblum and Rupert Everett for the role of Greco the Greek, but it didn’t work out with any of them. In the end, to avoid going over budget, he played the role himself in what will be his acting debut!”

Director Paul Schrader has an incredible career: getting off to an iconic start when he wrote this screenplay:

Taxi Driver!

One of the greatest films ever was full of great dialogue and powerfully violent scenes…see how they celebrated the 40th anniversary of Travis Bickle here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/04/21/travis-bickle-turns-40-taxi-driver-tribeca-screening-3-reasons-to-love-him-one-big-reason-to-hate/

Schrader also wrote and directed a powerful film in the 70’s that showcased Richard Pryor in a terrific performance:

Blue Collar!

This is one of Pryor’s best performances..see more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/05/28/richard-pryor-brilliantly-funny-violently-dramatic-his-most-incendiary-work/

Of course, Schrader directed one of the most controversial films of the 70’s as well:

Hardcore

This movie was filmed in actual XXX-rated shops in LA and San Francisco, as a midwest Businessman goes looking for his missing daughter…see the powerful trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/28/hardcore-a-journey-into-70s-porn-hell-classic-george-c-scott-performance/

Schrader also directed “American Gigolo” with Richard Here, and the intense “Cat People” remake in the mid-80’s…he also directed one of the first stars I ever worked with:

“Auto Focus”

Paul Schrader told the sordid story of Actor Bob Crane, whose obsession with porn – and women – was his downfall. Willem Dafoe is amazing in this film, as is Greg Kinnear, who I worked with when he hosted “Talk Soup” on E!

Here is a look at this great film, one of three neglected movies you should check out:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/30/sex-crazed-stars-tabloid-wars-and-tough-guys-too-little-seen-movie-gems/

Schrader never shied away from controversial subject matter, which is why this film got so much attention upon release a few years ago:

“The Canyons” was Lindsay Lohan’s comeback attempt, and another controversial film from Schrader. See the trailer and find out why the casting of this film was so controversial:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/07/15/lindsay-lohan-from-mean-girl-to-the-canyons/

Finally, if you want to read a great interview with the Director about all of his work, including “Dog Eat Dog”, click on this story from Indiewire:

http://www.indiewire.com/2016/11/paul-schrader-dog-eat-dog-the-canyons-1201743496/

I can’t wait to see “Dog Eat Dog”!

Princess Leia Unloads!

Carrie Fisher has an explosive new book about her “Star Wars” adventures coming out, and it includes some revelations about her and Han Solo!

Here’s how Google describes the book:

“When Carrie Fisher recently discovered the journals she kept during the filming of the first Star Wars movie, she was astonished to see what they had preserved-plaintive love poems, unbridled musings with youthful naivet , and a vulnerability that she barely recognized. Today, her fame as an author, actress, and pop-culture icon is indisputable, but in 1977, Carrie Fisher was just a (sort-of) regular teenager.”

Princess Leia’s Affair With Han Solo!

It seems that Fisher is going to share a LOT of behind-the-scenes revelations!

According to The Daily Beast:

“Carrie Fisher unveiled details of a secret relationship with her Star Wars co-star Harrison Ford in her forthcoming book, The Princess Diarist. Fisher, now 60, said the two began sleeping together one night in 1976 when Ford, then 32, offered to drive her, then 19, home while filming the beloved film franchise’s first installation. The affair lasted three months, she said, and she “relentlessly” wanted him to love her, often fantasizing, she recalled, that he would ask her to marry him with a “gold band with diamonds (inscribed) ‘Carrison.”’

According to the article:

“at the end of filming Star Wars, Ford returned to his wife Mary and two children (he and Mary divorced in 1979). Fisher has been rather open about off-screen life during the Star Wars filming, telling The Daily Beast last year that she and Ford partied with the Rolling Stones and members of the Monty Python troupe.”

Carrie Fisher is already a best-selling Author of books like “Postcards From The Edge”, and I cannot wait to read her latest memoir!

Of course, there was a more modern “Princess Leia” I shared with you:

Yes, I worked with Olivia Munn at G4, and her “Slave Leia” outfit turned a lot of head at our Star Wars convention coverage! See more pics here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/19/the-force-awakens-final-trailer-is-here-amazing-star-wars-cup-clingers-darth-vader-cmas-tree-olivia-munn-is-sexy-princess-leia-darth-vader-on-violin/

I also shared some great “Star Wars” news for fans of Disneyland – the first sketches of the new “Star Wars” land being built there:

See more pics here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/07/12/new-star-wars-disneyland-images-are-here-the-force-is-with-this-new-disney-theme-park-area/

Can’t wait for this book!

Clint Eastwood – And One Incredible Year For Film!

Clint Eastwood has, over his career, had many incredible films – beginning with his “man with no name” character from early iconic westerns like this:

Eastwood has become an accomplished Director as well, with classic films like his Oscar-winning Best Picture winner “Million Dollar Baby”:

In 1971, Eastwood’s acting career slammed full on into his directing debut, and along with his close friend Director Don Siegel, he made three films that are, as a triple bill, a film lovers dream come true.

One was a smash hit, one was a cult classic, and one was a roadmap for “Fatal Attraction” to follow years later…let’s begin with the box office smash, and one of the greatest action films ever made:

Dirty Harry!

Eastwood teamed up with Director Siegel on this gritty action classic. San Francisco faces the terror of a maniac known as Scorpio – who kills innocent people and demands the city pay him a ransom to stop him from killing again.

Here is the gritty trailer:

Against this straightforward plot, Director Siegel and Eastwood paint a picture of the times: 1971 was a polarizing time of police brutality and anti-war protests. The film takes a strong view that police brutality is warranted because the “system” favors criminals over victims. It was, and still is, a polarizing argument played out in the film….no more so than in the early iconic scene when Callahan taunts a bleeding criminal…after having his hot dog lunch interrupted…

DO YOU FEEL LUCKY, PUNK?

It’s one of the most iconic scenes in movie history – when Harry disrupts a bank robbery and shoots one of the bad guys, leading to this legendary dialogue:

That scene is one of the most well known of all time, and establishes Harry’s personality and anti-establishment attitude…that said, the film is also very funny early on, when Dirty Harry explains to the Mayor why he shot a man who was going to rape a woman. The Mayor wanted to know how Harry could have known that.

Harry: “Well, when an adult male is chasing a female with intent to commit rape, I shoot the bastard. That’s my policy.”
The Mayor: “Intent? How did you establish that?”

Harry: “When a naked man is chasing a woman through an alley with a butcher’s knife and a hard-on, I figure he isn’t out collecting for the Red Cross!”

Harry then dramatically walks out of the room…there’s a pause, then they cut to the Mayor, who says:

“He’s got a point.”

Another great scene has Harry using a fire department ladder to be taken up five stories and rescue a suicide jumper.

According to terrific trivia on IMDB, Clint Eastwood directed the scene. However, it was said he directed the scene because Director Don Siegel was ill. This is inaccurate. Siegel was indeed ill, and wasn’t on the set, but Eastwood had always been scheduled to direct that scene, due to the difficult logistics of getting the actors, director, camera-man and sound-man all together on the top of a small ledge. In the shooting schedule, 6 nights had been set aside for the shooting of the scene. Eastwood told the studio he could shoot it in two nights. In the end, he shot the entire scene in one night!

Here is that terrific scene:

“Dirty Harry” is a brilliant movie, a great action thriller with iconic dialogue and a compelling social argument underway throughout the film…oh, and Siegel and Eastwood used the film to promote Eastwood’s directorial debut as well…check out what’s the marquee as Dirty Harry is walking the streets of San Francisco:

1971 would be a year that Director Siegel and Eastwood would never duplicate – they worked together THREE times, including Eastwood’s terrific directorial debut:

“Play Misty For Me!”

Clint starred in this classic thriller, and also made his directorial debut…check out the trailer:

Eastwood plays a Jazz DJ, who makes a BIG mistake when he picks up on of his fans – at a bar that is tended by Director Don Siegel!

Siegel is clearly having a blast in this scene, but for Jessica Walter, her fascination with Eastwood turns deadly in a hurry…

Watch this 1971 thriller, and you will notice that “Fatal Attraction” uses many of the same ideas…Clint’s directorial debut is a lean and clean thriller…and yes, it was just the second film of 1971 for him, because he and Siegel still had one more cult classic to come:

The Beguiled!

This is an unknown cult classic – with Eastwood playing a wounded Civil War soldier who seeks refuge in a girl’s convent…

Of course, they do a lot more than just “dress his wounds”, and the film – directed by Don Siegel of course – becomes a gothic horror film…

This is a cult classic, and if you want to see more about the film, you can read it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/04/04/man-eager-girls-take-on-clint-eastwood-the-obscure-cult-classic-the-beguiled-sophia-coppolas-remake-on-the-way/

So 1971 was an amazing year for these two guys: Cline Eastwood and Don Siegel – bravo!

Jon Peters Speaks!

Bravo to Tatiana Siegel and The Hollywood Reporter, for this fascinating exclusive interview with the legendary Hollywood Producer Jon Peters!

“And With A Loaded Gun On The Coffee Table…”

How is this for a setup to the article?

“In his first interview in 10 years, and with a loaded gun on the coffee table, the legendary former hairdresser turned producer and studio chief opens up about voting for Donald — kept secret from “love of his life” Barbra Streisand — his feud with Peter Guber and how it feels to collect huge paychecks on Superman movies for doing nothing.”

Well, that grabs hold of you and never lets go, right?

This is the Jon Peters who was Barbra Streisand’s hairdresser, then Movie Producer of films like “A Star Is Born.”

The article quotes him this way regarding Barbra:

“She was probably the love of my life. Yeah. She was the most captivating, interesting, creative person I have ever met,” he says. “I owe her. I will always owe her for giving me the life that I’ve had.”

This is the Jon Peters who, along with Peter Gruber, produced the “Batman” films then ran Columbia Pictures for a time in the 80’s.

The nonfiction book “Hit & Run” details that wild era – a terrific book by Nancy Griffin & Kim Masters that is a must read as well.

Finally, this is the Jon Peters who makes millions and millions of dollars for NOT actively producing “Superman” films.

Yes, he has made a fortune for staying away from the “Superman” movies!

According to the article:

“One of the first questions he answers is about his cut on Superman films. He says he took home $80 million to $85 million combined for 2006’s Superman Returns and Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel thanks to backend granted for his role in jumpstarting the franchise in the ’90s. Warners declined to comment. “I have 7.5 percent of the gross,” says Peters. “Together they did [more than] a billion.” He adds he was banned from the set of Man of Steel at the behest of producer Christopher Nolan: “My reputation scares these guys.”

This is a great article, and Tatiana Siegel weaves an amazing story of Hollywood, and of a man who has become a legend for so many reasons! He has also been out of the limelight for a decade.

According to the article:

“The biggest reason Peters has eschewed the press for the past decade is due to what he calls a mischaracterization of his contributions, perpetrated by the Hollywood press.”

Until now. A fascinating read and again, bravo to Tatiana Siegel and The Hollywood Reporter. These two short highlights are just the beginning of a fascinating read, so please click to see the entire article here at TheHollywoodReporter.com:

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/features/i-am-trump-hollywood-reclusive-outrageous-jon-peters-is-still-rich-rich-963537

Again, a terrific article with an amazingly candid Peters.

I love stories of classic Hollywood, and my friend Alison Martino documents them as well on her “Vintage Los Angeles” website….see some here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/12/15/destroying-hollywoods-soul-goodbye-dominicks-vintage-los-angeles-alison-martino-fights-to-save-tinseltowns-iconic-past/

Alison is sharing great stories about Hollywood, its iconic locations, and more important, the legendary people who have made the entertainment industry what it is…

The industry was stunned when Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds both died, and their story is worth hearing over and over again…check out the new HBO special here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/12/29/rip-carrie-fisher-rip-debbie-reynolds-hbo-bright-lights-documentary-captures-their-life-together/

These two women were incredible Talents, with great inside stories of this wacky business…

I mean, only in Hollywood could I add up $812-million dollars in losses from a handful of films in 2016 – see those numbers here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/02/how-to-lose-812-million-in-the-movie-business-2016s-tough-tough-year/

Let me know what you think of the Jon Peters story!

“I’m an experienced woman. I’ve been around…well all right, I might not have been around, but I’ve been…nearby.”

RIP Mary Tyler Moore…

Very sad news today: legendary Actress Mary Tyler Moore passed away today…as TMZ reports, “the TV icon’s long battled diabetes, and she underwent brain surgery in 2011.One source tells us Mary had been on a respirator for more than a week.” She was 80 years old.

This is a tragic loss for all lovers of entertainment – she was one of television’s trailblazers, who helped break down barriers in the business…

LOS ANGELES – OCTOBER 10: Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore for The Dick Van Dyke Show. Image dated October 10, 1962. Hollywood, CA. (Photo by CBS via Getty Images)

Mary Tyler Moore was one of television’s most influential entertainers.

Moore became a star on The Dick Van Dyke Show, which was a huge smash hit on TV from 1961–1966. She played Laura Petrie, a former dancer turned Westchester homemaker, wife and mother.

Interestingly, at that time in TV, even married couples weren’t allowed to be shown in the same bed!

Moore was a six-time Emmy Award winner, and was the star of one of the most iconic TV series of all time: The Mary Tyler Moore Show.

As well as TV, Moore starred in many stage musicals and movies as well. She showcased a surprisingly serious side in 1980’s Academy Award winning Best Picture “Ordinary People”.

Moore won the Golden Globe for her performance in that film, and was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress.

“You Got Spunk…I Hate Spunk!

I fell in love with her when she starred as “spunky” Mary Richards in her self-titled show. This series was one of the greatest in TV history…

It also broke many barriers in TV…

“American audiences won’t tolerate divorce in a series’ lead any more than they will tolerate Jews, people with mustaches, and people who live in New York.”

And with that, TV Execs trashed the concept for one of the greatest TV sitcoms of all time – The Mary Tyler Moore Show!

Read what they said again:

“American audiences won’t tolerate divorce in a series’ lead any more than they will tolerate Jews, people with mustaches, and people who live in New York.”

No divorce. No mustaches. No New Yorkers. NO JEWS. WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?

Groundbreaking TV!

It’s almost impossible for young people today to understand the way TV was at the end of the 60’s. Lucky for us, “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” broke through ALL of these restrictions to create an iconic TV comedy. Here is the cast that helped change the rules for TV forever!

And here is the classic line, uttered by News Director Lou Grant, when young Mary Richards came in for a job interview:

“You Got Spunk! (short pause) I Hate Spunk!”

That’s how we were introduced to two of TV’s greatest characters of all time…

Mary Tyler Moore starred in a television series that was unprecedented: a single woman working in the big city! She broke so many rules with this iconic series, which stands the test of time.

What you may not know is that veteran character actor Ed Asner, when he auditioned for the role of grizzled newman Lou Grant, botched that “spunk” line so bad he burst back into the audition room and demanded to try it again!

There is a fantastic book that tells the story of how this show came to be, and how it broke so many rules….

When writer-producers James L. Brooks and Allan Burns dreamed up an edgy show about a divorced woman with a career, you already know how the CBS executives reacted. Now, read how the Producers persevered again all odds!

Now A Book Tells All!

I came across this TERRIFIC new book that takes us inside the creation of this classic TV show – with tons of interviews with all of those involved!

“I’m an experienced woman. I’ve been around…well all right, I might not have been around, but I’ve been…nearby.”

Jennifer Keishin Armstrong’s “Mary and Lou and Rhoda and Ted” tells the stories behind the making of this show, shining a well-deserved light on the groundbreaking female writers who in some cases turned their real-life stories of being a single woman at the dawn of the sexual revolution into scripts…

You’ll meet writers like Treva Silverman, and find out how she made it in a male-dominated industry – resulting in the show taking on “modern day female issues” that were never discussed on TV before then!

Mary, Phyllis And Rhoda!

It was unprecedented for a woman to headline her own show – and now add Phyllis and Rhoda, and you had three of the most important, groundbreaking characters on TV. The book introduces you to creative team behind these indelible characters; the lone woman network executive who cast the legendary ensemble — and advocated for this provocative show — and the colorful cast of actors who made it all work.

James L. Brooks, Grant Tinker, Allan Burns, Valerie Harper, Cloris Leachman, Betty White, Gavin MacLeod, Ed Asner, Ted Knight, Georgia Engel — they all came together to make a show that changed women’s lives and television itself. “Mary and Lou and Rhoda and Ted” is the tale of how they did it.

The First Cast Photo!

This is the first publicity photo shot for the show.

For fun, the cast also did a goofy version of their publicity shot at the same time, which they planned to send Critics who wrote a negative article about the show…supposedly to show they had a sense of humor…but as BAD reviews started coming in, they panicked, and so they destroyed the picture…except for this copy that a secretary kept as a souvenir!

The book is full of great anecdotes and candid comments from everyone, including Mary Tyler Moore, who was afraid the audience would reject her as a divorced woman – and then of course it didn’t matter, because the network demanded she just get “dumped” by a fiance instead!

The Last Episode!

When this show finally went off the air, they did it in one of the greatest finale’s of all time. The entire newsroom bands together to save Anchorman Ted Baxter’s job, only to find out that he was the only one who DIDN’T get fired!

“I’m Ted Baxter, The Best Darn Anchorman On TV!”

That is, of course, what Ted said when he testified in court. Why did he say that?

“I had to – I was under oath!”

Just another hilarious line from one of the greatest characters ever created for TV. That’s why the finale hits home so much, because you care about ALL of the cast. The book is full of stories about how insecure Ted Knight was with his character, afraid that people would think he was as stupid as his TV character…

And when Rhoda and Phyllis left for spin-offs, the book also tells the fascinating story about how Betty White was cast as “Happy Homemaker” Sue Ann Nivens…so many great anecdotes!

FYI, Betty White was recently given a Guinness Book of World Records award as the longest running TV personality of all time…congrats to her and we will her the best of health – she is in her nineties now…

This entire series is available on DVD, and is, without a doubt, one of the greatest TV shows of all time.

RIP to Mary Tyler Moore – an incredibly talented performer who left a wonderful legacy behind…

Deadline.com just posted this story about a public memorial now planned for Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher on Saturday, March 25 at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills.

The post reads: “We will be celebrating their lives with friends, family members, and the people who loved them, you. The service will begin at 1:00 PM and immediately afterwards, those who want to walk to their final resting place are welcome to do so.”

“There are a limited number of seats available, and it will be on a first come first come, first seated basis, There are no tickets, it is first come, first seated. There will be room for overflow in the huge lobby as well as the outside with screens to watch and hear the service.”

Carrie’s brother Todd posted this on Twitter:

“Memorial for Debbie & Carrie set for 3/25 @1pm Forrest Lawn Hollywood Hills, Hall of Liberty Theater, Info at:

http://hollywoodmotionpictureexperience.com/news/

Fans were stunned by the deaths of Fisher and her mother Reynolds – HBO rushed onto air the candid and poignant documentary “Bright Lights” that told their story:

You can read about that documentary here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/12/29/rip-carrie-fisher-rip-debbie-reynolds-hbo-bright-lights-documentary-captures-their-life-together/

I can’t wait to see how many people turn out to honor these two legends…

“Son, whatever you do, don’t sell that cow!”

Happy Birthday Gene Hackman!

One of America’s greatest Actors is celebrating a birthday, so it’s time to share trivia, trailers and ten of his greatest roles….

Time To Celebrate The Legendary Gene Hackman!

January 30th is the Actor’s birthday – he was born in 1930.

His career spanned five decades – and resulted in a ton of awards, including two Oscars. He won the Best Actor award in 1971 for his portrayal of “Popeye” Doyle in “The French Connection”, and the Best Supporting Actor award for “Unforgiven” in 1992.

His First Roommate Was Dustin Hoffman!

First, a few bio tidbits: In 1956, Hackman began pursuing an acting career; he joined the Pasadena Playhouse in California, where he made friends with another aspiring actor, Dustin Hoffman. Already seen as outsiders by their classmates, Hackman and Hoffman were later voted “The Least Likely To Succeed.”

FYI, the two Actors remained lifelong friend, and they finally acted together in the film “The Runaway Jury.”

“FATHER BRADY?????”

How about this?!?!?! Gene Hackman nearly accepted the role of Mike Brady in the TV series, “The Brady Bunch”, but was advised by his agent to turn it down – he was almost Marcia Brady’s Dad!

Author Hackman!

Did you know that Hackman has teamed with undersea archaeologist Daniel Lenihan, and written a number of novels, including Wake of the Perdido Star (1999), Justice for None (2004), Escape from Andersonville (2008) and Payback at Morning Peak (2011).

It was in 2008, while promoting his third novel, that Hackman confirmed that he had retired from acting.

Director Alexander Payne specifically wanted to make his movie “Nebraska” just so he could work with Hackman, but the Actor declined the offer to come out of retirement…so the role went to Bruce Dern, who got an Oscar-nomination for the role!

Could you imagine how great Hackman would have been in the movie? It was a tailor-made role for him – and he is, without a doubt, one of film’s all time greatest…

Here now is my list of the top ten Gene Hackman performances, beginning with one that you may not even remember – his comedic cameo for Mel Brooks:

10-Young Frankenstein!

Yes, it was only a cameo, but Hackman proved he could do comedy with the best of them – popping up halfway through this classic Mel Brooks comedy, as a lonely Monk looking to share a meal and a cigar with the Frankenstein monster.

Hilarious.

You never think of Hackman as a comedic Actor, but he had perfect comic timing, shown off no better than here, in a comedy masterpiece…and there are more great comedic examples to come, but first, one of the his best roles is also a favorite for all sports film lovers:

9 – Hoosiers!

In 1986, Hackman played a coach with a checkered past who teams up with a local drunk played by Dennis Hopper to train a small town high school basketball team to become a top contender for the championship.

His performance is understated, and he gives Hopper plenty of room to shine in the smaller role – a great example of his generosity as an Actor.

He burst onto the movie scene, however, with his mesmerizing role in a modern classic:

8 – Bonnie & Clyde!

Hackman exploded on movie screens as Buck Barrow, part of the most legendary gang in history. As Clyde says, “this here’s Miss Bonnie Parker. I’m Clyde Barrow. We rob banks.”

Hackman was oscar-nominated for his performance in this groundbreaking action thriller from 1967. You could see from this performance that he had “star quality”…especially when he tells a joke while they are driving – with the classic punchline:

“Son, whatever you do, don’t sell that cow!”

He was simply mesmerizing in the scene…

Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway head up an outstanding cast directed by Arthur Penn, who also directed another classic Hackman film, “Night Moves” – more on that in a moment……

“Bonnie & Clyde” is one of the most important films of the 60’s – ushering in a new era of violence and frankness in movies…read more about that era here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/03/17/bonnie-clyde-vintage-la-screening-amazing-live-guest-pictures-from-a-revolution/

Hackman could play a tough guy very well, but here is one of his most popular roles – again, many forget this one, since he was playing a comic villain in a beloved Superhero movie!

7 – Superman!

In 1978, Hackman entertained a whole new generation with his portrayal of Lex Luthor, the Superman’s nemesis, and he did it with a comedic flair that has been missing in re-boots of the franchise…

It was unexpected casting – considering that Hackman was an Oscar-winning Actor at the time – serious, tough as nails, not known for a comedic touch…yet in the film, he acts in such a fun, carefree way that it forever changed his reputation as a serious, tough as nails Actor!

As Lex Luthor says to his idiotic accomplice Otis, played beautifully by Ned Beatty:

“Do you know why the number two hundred is so vitally descriptive to both you and me? It’s your weight and my I.Q.”

And Hackman’s comic timing was showcased once again in this film that skewers Hollywood!

6-Get Shorty!

This is one of the best films about Hollywood. John Travolta starred as mobster Chili Palmer, who travels to Hollywood to collect a debt and discovers that the movie business is much the same as his current job: a non-stop hustle. Hackman has a terrific role as Harry Zimm, a low-rent, low-budget movie Producer who gets caught up in Travolta’s Hollywood adventures, and pays a painfully funny price.

The late James Gandolfini also has a great part in the film, but Hackman nailed the sleazy Producer role.

As Zimm says of Chili Palmer:

“The guy’s been in town two days, and already he thinks he’s David O. Fucking Selznick.”

Lots of great acting in this hilarious movie from 1995.

Now, back to a classic film noir from he 70’s…

5-Night Moves.

I’ve written about “Night Moves” before, but now that it has been released on DVD and Amazon streaming, it’s a great film to check out.

Here is the film’s trailer:

It’s a terrifically moody film noir – Hackman plays private detective Harry Moseby, who gets hired for a standard missing person case, as an aging Hollywood actress wants him to find her stepdaughter. The stepdaughter is played by Melanie Griffith, in her first movie role.

As Private Detective Harry Moseby travels to Florida to find the missing girl, he begins to see a connection between the runaway girl and a suspicious mechanic when an unsolved murder comes to light.

As with all great film noir, the story takes many twists and turns as the true motives of the cast become clear…and a great cast including the young Griffith and a young James Woods as well.

You can see more about this film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/11/14/the-limey-night-moves-classic-action-noir/

Hackman starred in a number of action films, but perhaps the most deliriously entertaining is this gritty “B” movie from the early 70’s:

4-Prime Cut!

Lee Marvin was one of film’s all-time tough guys, but Gene Hackman stood toe-to-toe with him in this gritty thriller…here’s a teaser:

Lee Marvin plays his toughest role ever, as an “Enforcer” for the Mob, who heads to Kansas City to get the money that Gene Hackman owes the Mob…

Hackman plays a cattle rancher who not only grinds his enemies into sausage, but sells women as sex slaves. The movie was considered highly risqué for its time based on its level of violence, as well as its graphic depiction of female slavery, including a scene depicting the auctioning of young women in the manner of beef cattle.

Gene Hackman digs into his role as the bad guy, but it’s Marvin to kick ass and takes no prisoners. There is a scene where Marvin and Sissy Spacek are chased through a wheat field by a shredder…a great action sequence.

This was Sissy Spacek’s feature film debut – and involves a lot of nudity for the young Actress….

Marvin and Gene Hackman have a number of great scenes together, a couple of tough guys chewing up the scenery in a great B-movie – here is more trivia on the film:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/23/prime-cut-grindhouse-classic-gene-hackman-vs-lee-marvin/

One of the my favorites of all-time includes a performance by Hackman that is one of his best:

3-Scarecrow.

“A crow isn’t afraid of a scarecrow. It laughs.”

Hackman starred with a very young Al Pacino in Director Jerry Schatzberg’s brilliant “Scarecrow”…here is the trailer:

Talk about an acting master class! Gene Hackman was just a year past his Oscar-Winning Best Actor role in “The French Connection” Here he plays Max, an ex-con who’s been saving money to open a car wash in Pittsburgh.

Max: “For every car, there is dirt.”

Max is hitch-hiking across country, and on the way he meets Al Pacino…

Gene Hackman is brilliant as a tough, tough TOUGH ex-con who has a plan, and NOTHING is going to get in his way…he also has a few hilarious quirks, such as what he likes to eat:

Max: [at the lunch counter] “Gimme a chocolate doughnut and a bottle of beer.”

This is a real “road” movie. Before shooting, Gene Hackman and Al Pacino both dressed as hobos and hitchhiked through California to get into their characters.

Hackman’s Favorite Role!

Gene Hackman has stated that his performance in “Scarecrow” is his personal favorite. For Pacino, this film followed “Needle Park” and “The Godfather”, and led right into “The Godfather Part 2″…what a run of masterful acting performances for both of them!

Next up is one of the most under-rated movies of the 70’s, even though it was nominated for a slew of Oscars, including Best Picture:

2-The Conversation.

“I’m not afraid of death, but I am afraid of murder.”

In 1974, Francis Ford Coppola made this outstanding drama about Harry Caul, an expert in the art of listening in on others…but his specialty comes back to haunt him when he hears a murder…or does he?

Hackman controls himself throughout the film, giving a nuanced performance that is in stark contrast to his other roles of the time…and the film is an acknowledged masterpiece.

“The Conversation” was nominated for Best Picture in 1974, losing to Director Coppola’s other masterpiece that year, “The Godfather Part 2”.

Here is the trailer for this masterful thriller:

Now, don’t laugh…but tied for #2 on my list is a big-budget action movie that is great!

2-The Poseidon Adventure!

“Hell, Upside Down.”

That was the tagline for the greatest disaster movie of all time. And you know why it’s just a timeless action thriller? Because of Hackman!

It is the gravitas of Hackman that holds the film together – a testament to his powerful screen presence…

Gene Hackman plays Reverand Scott, who must help a small group climb up to the bottom of the overturned luxury cruise ship. This is the gold standard for disaster films, and it took a great actor like Hackman to give the premise weight – to make their adventure seem real.

Look at the cast of classic Hollywood names populating this film: Stella Stevens, Ernest Borgnine, Shelley Winters, just to name a few of the ton of recognizable faces that populate this 1972 smash hit.

This is a classic 70’s disaster film, see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/06/18/celebrity-smackdowns-hell-upside-down-the-disastrous-duo-of-poseidon-adventure-and-towering-inferno/

I love all of these movies, but this is the one that cemented Hackman’s reputation:

The French Connection!

It was the Academy Award-winning Best Picture of 1971, the true story of “Popeye” Doyle, a NY cop determined to bust a heroin smuggling ring…

He is, of course, a cop willing to break all the rules in order to get his man – and that includes one of the most amazing car chases ever filmed…beautifully directed by legendary Director William Friedkin, who went on to make “The Exorcist”, “To Live And Die In LA”, “Sorcerer” AND “Killer Joe”!

The Legendary Car Chase!

Thanks to the terrific website IMDB, here are some amazing anecdotes about the filming of the legendary car chase through the streets of New York in “The French Connection.”

The car crash during the chase sequence, at the intersection of Stillwell Ave. and 86th St., was unplanned and was included because of its realism. The man whose car was hit had just left his house a few blocks from the intersection to go to work and was unaware that a car chase was being filmed. The producers paid the bill for the repairs to his car!

According to IMDB, the car chase was filmed without obtaining the proper permits from the city! Members of the NYPD’s tactical force helped control traffic. But most of the control was achieved by the assistant directors with the help of off-duty NYPD officers, many of whom had been involved in the actual case.

A camera was mounted on the car’s bumper for the shots from the car’s point-of-view. Hackman did some of the driving but the extremely dangerous stunts were performed by Bill Hickman, with Friedkin filming from the backseat.

Friedkin operated the camera himself because the other camera operators were married with children and he was not. The mjaority of the chase was, however, very well choreographed, but it is that realism in the filming that makes the scene itself so heart-pounding!

The film spawned a sequel, as Hackman goes to Marseilles to track down his nemesis…this is also a great film with a dynamite performance by Hackman…

Hackman’s Oscar-winning role included memorable dialogue such as this:

“All right! You put a shiv in my partner. You know what that means? Goddammit! All winter long I got to listen to him gripe about his bowling scores. Now I’m gonna bust your ass for those three bags and I’m gonna nail you for picking your feet in Poughkeepsie!”

Interestingly, the creative team behind the Oscar-winning Best Picture “The Artist” re-told “The French Connection” – from the french point of view!

You can see more about this new film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/03/09/the-french-connection-an-exciting-new-take-on-the-william-friedkin-oscar-classic/

As for Gene Hackman, he excelled in every film he made, even “B” movies like this one:

This early 70’s western starred Hackman alongside Oliver Reed and Candace Bergen – a gritty film about kidnapping and revenge…see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/03/02/grab-your-six-shooter-true-grit-clint-eastwood-bob-dylan-classic-westerns/

There you have it – enough great Gene Hackman movies to keep you busy for the next year! Tell me what I missed – although I already have an idea – I mean, he was great in “The Firm”, The Royal Tanenbaums” and of course, “Unforgiven”…so much stuff to share – and celebrate…

Happy birthday, Gene!

The Oscar Mistake Heard Round The World!

Yes, we all know now that Best Picture presenters Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty were given the wrong envelope on Oscar night, and inadvertently announced “LaLa Land” as Best Picture instead of “Moonlight.”

Warren Beatty holds the card for the Best Picture Oscar awarded to “Moonlight,” after announcing by mistake that “La La Land” was winner. REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson

This led to one of the most chaotic endings to the Awards ever – and cast Beatty and Dunaway as Oscar’s “out of touch older generation” who can’t even read a name off an envelope.

This is horribly unfair, and without delving into the controversy any more, I was also saddened to read on social media afterwards that many people didn’t even know who the two stars were!

I just wanted to remind everyone why both Beatty and Dunaway are iconic Hollywood stars who deserve more respect than this incident gave them…

Let’s begin with their joint masterpiece, “Bonnie & Clyde.” This Oscar-nominated 1967 film set new standards for violence in film, and was at the forefront of the new “honest and raw” cinema that emerged at the end of that decade.

My friend Alison Martino held an amazing screening and conversation in LA for this film, and you can see that event here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/03/17/bonnie-clyde-vintage-la-screening-amazing-live-guest-pictures-from-a-revolution/

This film was at the forefront of a sea change in Hollywood, and Dunaway and Beatty went on to make some of the greatest films of all time.

Dunaway didn’t win an Academy Award for “Bonnie & Clyde”, but when she did win, she was captured the morning after in one of the greatest Hollywood photos of all time:

This was Dunaway the morning after the 1976 Awards, sitting at the Beverly Hills Hotel pool surrounded by newspaper coverage of her win…with Oscar, of course…her victory was for one of the greatest performances ever, in a film full of them:

“I want you to get up right now and go to the window. Open it, and stick your head out, and yell, ‘I’M AS MAD AS HELL, AND I’M NOT GOING TO TAKE THIS ANYMORE!'”

Network!–

This brilliant indictment of television news was Oscar-nominated for Best Picture in 1976 – with an oscar-winning script by Paddy Cheyefky that saw the sordid future of TV – which has come true.

Here are the opening lines of the movie:

“This story is about Howard Beale, who was the news anchorman on UBS TV. In his time, Howard Beale had been a mandarin of television, the grand old man of news, with a HUT rating of 16 and a 28 audience share. In 1969, however, his fortunes began to decline. He fell to a 22 share. The following year, his wife died, and he was left a childless widower with an 8 rating and a 12 share. He became morose and isolated, began to drink heavily, and on September 22, 1975, he was fired, effective in two weeks. The news was broken to him by Max Schumacher, who was the president of the news division at UBS. The two old friends got properly pissed.”

This is a brilliant dissection of a business just waiting to be perverted by greed, money – and ratings.

Take a look at the trailer:

The movie won a slew of Oscars in 1976, including Peter Finch as Best Actor – his nomination and award were posthumous. Finch became the first posthumous winner in an acting category. Faye Dunaway won Best Actress, leading to this legendary photo the next morning.

Best Actress in a Supporting Role went to Beatrice Straight. Best Writing, Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen was awarded to the brilliant Paddy Chayefsky.

Dunaway was in some of the greatest films ever, including this masterpiece from 1974:

You can read more about that performance here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/02/19/forget-it-jake-its-chinatown-cynical-attitudes-and-sexual-motivations/

As for Beatty, check out seminal films like “Shampoo”, “Heaven Can Wait” and “Red”…all classic films from one of Hollywood legends.

I hope that Beatty and Dunaway are given more respect than what came out right after the live mistake, and I plan to check out more of their great work!

I’m An Award Winner!

I have seen this “Mystery Blogger Award” before, but guess what? This time it was bestowed upon me!

Thank you very much to Lloyd Marken for the Nomination!

Here is a link to his website:

https://lloydmarken.wordpress.com

After Lloyd was nice enough to tag me, I read through the material and am jumping all in – so here goes!

The “Mystery Blogger Award” was created by the wonderful Okoto Enigma, who I’m sure we can all agree can describe the award better in her own words, which she does here:

https://okotoenigma.wordpress.com/my-greatest-creation-yet/

Briefly,

“The “Mystery Blogger Award” is an award for amazing bloggers with ingenious posts. Their blog not only captivates; it inspires and motivates. They are one of the best out there, and they deserve every recognition they get. This award is also for bloggers who find fun and inspiration in blogging; and they do it with so much love and passion”.

For those new to following me, here are 3 things about myself:

My wife, Alex Duda, encouraged to start this blog five years ago as a creative outlet…I work in the entertainment industry, and it has proven to be a fun way to share some adventures with friends and family…

Tokyo Nightlife!

One place I have posted about many times is Japan – whether its to share fun stuff like strange Kit Kat flavors:

Yes, like “Creamed Corn Kit Kats”, which you can see more of here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/05/shrimp-flavored-kit-kats-baked-potato-too-the-wildest-kit-kat-flavors-ever-plus-canned-pancake-soda/

Or when I told the story about eating “sushi for breakfast” with my wife and son at Tokyo’s famous Tsujiki fish market:

I have been lucky enough to travel to Tokyo several times…here is more of an in depth look at my trip during the summer of 2016:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/07/04/the-magic-of-tokyo-2016-eel-waiting-rooms-golden-gai-drinking-cat-ads/

I love to travel, and Tokyo’s an incredible adventure…but so are many other cities – like Barcelona:

This amazing city offered unique architecture AND amazing food!

You can see our great Barcelona “tapas” adventure here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/03/bite-down-on-the-worlds-best-food-paris-napa-barcelona-provence-chicago-five-incredible-bites/

People have also noted that I am prone to share lots of pictures of this:

Bacon!

Yes, I love to share stories about bacon because bacon is funny, and “you never cut funny.” Here is a story about the health benefits of bacon – so how can your refuse now?

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/10/bacon-controversy-rasher-shortage-top-ten-benefits-of-bacon-seaweed-bacon-2/

I also share lots of burger pictures, like this one from Taylor’s Refresher in Napa Valley:

I recently posted some of the wildest burgers from around the world, including one that is SO HOT that you have to sign a release before you eat it! Check it out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/12/30/alka-seltzer-burgers-for-the-holidays-napa-burgers-xxx-burgers-haggis-sliders-heartburn-holiday-meals-to-wrap-2016/

I also post lots of stories about movies – movies of all kinds: the greatest films ever made, and some that aren’t:

Yes, there is a movie called “The Sinful Dwarf”, and yes, I OWN IT.

If you’ve never heard of Times Square’s notorious “grindhouse” era, it was a time for wild wild moviemaking like this – and moviegoing as well:

Here is a primer of this crazy era in movie history:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/23/a-42nd-street-grindhouse-tour-of-new-york-seven-sexploitation-classics-that-turned-times-square-down-and-dirty/

OK, so according to this “mystery blogger award” post, I must nominate 15-20 other bloggers…

Here are a few that I read religiously:

https://catsandtrailsandgardentales.com

https://beetleypete.wordpress.com

https://letsgotothemovies7.com

https://cindybruchman.com

https://sevendoorsofcinema.com

Also, you go to my main page and you will see links to many blogs I follow on the right side of the front page…they are all worth nominating!

Let me know what kind of posts you like, and let me know other bloggers I should follow as well!

Feeling Down? Ted Baxter’s Got The Answer!

My friend Beetley Pete shared a great anecdote today, which you can see at his website – he was talking about how to see things in a more positive light, which is a goal of his – here is the story:

https://beetleypete.wordpress.com/2017/03/05/continuing-positivity/#respond

After I read his blog, I shared a clip with him, and then decided to go ahead and share it with everyone – there are days (perhaps longer!) where life is frustrating and can wear you down – but as Don Henley said in his song “Long Way Home”:

“There’s three sides to every story babe
There’s yours and there’s mine and the cold, hard truth…”

So I realized that your point of view is everything…how you choose to see life is how you will live it…and Ted Baxter sums it up perfectly!

I shared this clip with Pete…a moment from the legendary “Mary Tyler Moore” show…Ted Baxter was the pompous yet lovable Anchorman, Lou Grant the tough as nails News Director, and Mary of course the empowered independent Producer in an era when women NEVER had empowered roles on TV.

On one episode, Mary was worn down, a bit depressed, but Ted was there to give her the advice she needed…here is the clip – watch to the end to get the full impact of Ted Baxter’s brilliance:

So, while Ted didn’t even understand his own advice, his character always knew “what was what” and his innocence, bluster and ego never masked what was a pure, genuine soul…and Ted Knight was brilliant in the role, especially when the legendary Walter Cronkite stopped by the show:

After Ted “talks shop” about which words are more difficult to say on-air, Cronkite looks at Lou Grant and mutters:

“I’ll get you for this!”

The role made Ted Knight a star. He received six Emmy Award nominations for the role, winning the Emmy for “Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Comedy” in 1973 and 1976.

Knight went on to star in the TV series “Too Close for Comfort”, and also had a role in the iconic comedy “Caddyshack” as well.

And I never knew this, but Knight released an album of comedy songs as well – and always with a big smile on his face!

Knight died in 1986…but I still watch the “MTM” show just to see his greatest moments…and there is a book all about the show as well:

Here is a look at the stories behind the making of this great TV classic:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/08/19/mary-tyler-moore-show-you-got-spunk-a-tv-classic-revealed/

Of course, Mary Tyler Moore had a long and varied career, including an Oscar nomination for her work in the Best Picture of 1980, “Ordinary People”.

She was a great Actress and a great person as well – here is her story:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/25/rip-mary-tyler-moore-brilliant-entertainer-broke-tv-barriers/

Finally, since I mentioned both “Caddyshack” AND comedy albums, here is another guy who did both:

CADDYSHACK, from left: Executive Producer Jon Peters, Chevy Chase, Ted Knight, Rodney Dangerfield, 1980. © Orion Pictures/ Courtesy: Everett Collection

Yes, Rodney Dangerfield “got no respect” but his role in “Caddyshack” is brilliant, up against Ted Knight at every turn…see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/05/19/rodney-dangerfield-brilliant-comic-gets-no-respect-rapping-rodney-his-hilarious-caddyshack-outtakes/

Thanks Ted for cheering us all up!

“We Can’t ALL Be Nice Girls…”

Brie Larson gets down and dirty in this new action thriller!

“Free Fire” Is About To Unload!

“Free Fire” is a new British action-comedy film directed by Ben Wheatley, starring Brie Larson, Sharlto Copley, Armie Hammer and Cillian Murphy.

First, check out the trailer!

I am SOLD on this for two reasons: first, what a great cast, and they are all clearly having a blast with this film!

Second, it’s because of the Director, Ben Wheatley!

Sure, this picture was taken in jest, but if you haven’t seen any of his films, are you missing out!

“Kill List” and “High Rise” are just two of his terrific movies: gritty, unconventional and wildly entertaining, and “Free Fire” looks to be another great action thriller for us to enjoy!

I love that Brie Larson is taking on wildly different roles post Oscar win: it will help her avoid the “Oscar curse” in my opinion, especially if she keeps working with great new Directors like Wheatley.

Here is a great article from “The Guardian” all about the movie:

https://www.theguardian.com/film/2017/mar/23/director-ben-wheatley-cruelty-feels-more-honest-to-me-free-fire

And if you want to get a taste of his widely creative films, start here:

You can see the trailer for his “hit man horror” film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/19/kill-list-director-ben-wheatleys-shocking-thriller-brilliant-hit-man-horror/

I have to say, I’m loving this trend in film – empowered Oscar-winning women kicking ass!

Here is the red band trailer for Charlize Theron’s new action thriller “Atomic Blonde!”

https://johnrieber.com/2017/03/12/check-out-the-amazing-charlize-theron-trailer-for-atomic-blonde-celebrate-empowered-women-kicking-ass-on-film/

I can’t wait to see “Free Fire”!

25 Years Of “Basic Instinct!”

Wow, time flies when you are getting naked on screen! Yes, it was 25 years ago that Sharon Stone cemented her place in movie history, thanks to an erotic thriller with one very memorable scene:

“Basic Instinct” Sneaks A Peek At Movie Infamy!

Without a doubt the most controversial movie of 1992, and one of the most notorious Hollywood films of the last 30 years – you know, because of THIS scene:

Sharon Stone made Hollywood history with this memorable “show and tell” during her police interrogation in “Basic Instinct”…immediately turning the cops into a bunch of drooling idiots…

AND THE LEGEND GROWS!

Every movie buff knows that Stone wasn’t wearing any underwear in the scene, but here’s some backstory:

“According to Sharon Stone, director Paul Verhoeven asked her to remove her underwear for the leg-crossing scene, as he said they were too bright and reflected at the camera. Stone agreed to do so under the assumption that her genitals weren’t visible. It was only at an early preview that Stone discovered Verhoeven chose to use this specific shot. ”

However, Director Paul Verhoeven’s version of the story is different.

He says that “he told Stone beforehand about the leg-crossing shot, as it was important for showing Catherine Tramell’s free-spirited nature and her constant drive to toy with people. Stone was reportedly excited about the idea and shot the scene. However, during the early preview, her agents supposedly disproved of the scene, fearing it would harm her future career. According to Verhoeven, Stone radically changed her mind about the shot and demanded that he remove it, which he ultimately refused.”

Either way, the controversy about the scene made the movie a huge hit – at a time when Michael Douglas was one of Hollywood’s biggest box office stars.

“Basic Instinct” was also one of Douglas’s “penis movies” – he was letting it fly onscreen at the time – here are the others from that era!

https://johnrieber.com/2014/01/13/fatal-attractions-basic-instincts-full-disclosure-the-infamous-michael-douglas-penis-trilogy/

The “Vanity Fair” Story!

The success of “Basic Instinct” is the setup for a terrific new article in the latest Vanity Fair magazine.

This sex-filled murder mystery in 1992 led to the rise of a whole new genre of “direct to VHS” erotic thrillers, which is covered in a terrific new Vanity Fair article!

As you can see by the cover, Vanity Fair covers all sorts of “inside entertainment” stories, but this one is fascinating!

“The Sexpendables!”

The article talks about the era after “Basic Instinct”, when erotic thrillers were wildly popular, and smart companies flooded the marketed with movies like “Sins Of Desire”….here is an excerpt from the article:

“For prolific and proficient B-movie directors, the erotic thriller was another color to add to their palette. Before Basic Instinct, Jim Wynorski was best-known for such horror cult favorites as Chopping Mall, Sorority House Massacre 2, and 976-Evil 2. Following the release of Basic Instinct, he got the call to do Sins of Desire (“She was seduced into a world of sexual adventure . . . and dangerous deception”). “I was good and I was fast,” Wynorski tells Vanity Fair. “They knew the product would be solid.”

These B-movies ultimately helped brand a pay cable channel – they became “skinamax” features, sexy erotic thrillers that earned Cinemax a reputation for showing them all day and night – classic cult stuff like this!

Yep, even Madonna dove deep into the b-movie pool – here is the Vanity Fair article:

http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2017/03/basic-instinct-anniversary-sharon-stone-video

Of course, in an earlier era, these films would have been shown on New York’s notorious “grindhouse” district of 42nd Street!

Here is a look at some of the wildest films that populated Times Square in the 70’s!

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/23/a-42nd-street-grindhouse-tour-of-new-york-seven-sexploitation-classics-that-turned-times-square-down-and-dirty/

Here’s to 25 years of “Basic Instinct” wildness!

Sharing Stories About A Great Hollywood Career!

Sherry Lansing was one of Hollywood’s most powerful Executives, and she has decided to tell some of the wild behind-the-scenes stories from her career!

The Hollywood Reporter’s Stephen Galloway is releasing “Leading Lady”, his biography of Lansing…and THR printed an excerpt to promote the release and it’s a doozy!

This excerpt talks about her run-in with Mike Myers during the planned filming of “Wayne’s World 2.”

Here’s an excerpt from the THR story about the book – when Lansing was in charge of Paramount Studios, and Mike Myers was ready to begin filming the sequel to his massive comedy hit:

“The then-Paramount chairman made an unfortunate discovery weeks before shooting was due to commence: Myers had heavily based the sequel on the 1949 British comedy ‘Passport to Pimlico’ — only nobody had bought the underlying rights.”

“Mike had always wanted to do Passport to Pimlico as the basis of Wayne’s World,” said SNL creator Lorne Michaels, who produced the comedy. “So he went and wrote it. I think he believed the studio understood that, and I think he even believed they had bought the rights to the other movie so that he was free to use it.”
Furious, Lansing summoned Myers to her office and told him exactly that — in much different (and harsher) words. Remembers one participant in the Myers-Lansing meeting: “She said, ‘How dare you? How dare you put us in this position?’ She turned to Mike and said, ‘We’ll sue you. We’ll take your f—ing house. You won’t even own a f—ing home.'”

The story continues:

“The verbal scathing went on, with Lansing adding a special twist, as then-production chief John Goldwyn recalled: “She made up this fabulous story about all of the lawyers sitting with [Paramount Communications executive] Stanley Jaffe. She said, ‘As I’m sitting here with you, there’s a team figuring out how they can take every single thing away from you.'”

Myers believed it, and was so shaken that he curled up in a fetal position on Lansing’s couch.

Said Lansing: “If I were you, Mike, I’d go to Lorne’s office right now and stay there until you come up with a new script. We’ll slide food under the door.”

Wow! She had a reputation for being tough as nails, and I can’t wait to read more stories about her career. Other anecdotes from the book have been released dealing with Mel Gibson’s temper and a real boiled bunny from “Fatal Attraction!”

Here is another book that also has a shocking Mel Gibson story – read about it here – along with MY Mel Gibson encounter:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/08/14/heaven-and-mel-shocking-mel-gibson-book-my-mel-encounter/

Lansing’s book is sure to be a page turner based on the stories teased so far!

She is also married to one of Hollywood’s greatest filmmakers, William Friedkin. Friedkin of course directed such great films as “The Exorcist”, “The French Connection”, “Sorcerer”, “To Live And Die In LA” and most recently “Killer Joe.”

He wrote his autobiography a few years ago – read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/04/22/sorcerer-legendary-lost-classic-is-uncovered-on-blu-ray-the-friedkin-connection-rules/

Of course, one reason that “Wayne’s World” was such a smash hit was their use of the classic Queen song “Bohemian Rhapsody”:

Read all about the creation of that brilliant Queen song here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/02/23/queens-brilliant-night-at-the-opera-freddie-mercurys-musical-madness/

Finally, Mike Myers has been largely absent from movies for a few years, but he did direct a terrific documentary:

Shep Gordon was a legend in Hollywood, handling some of the biggest stars of the 70’s and 80’s…see the trailer for this terrific documentary here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/07/12/rocks-supermensch-mike-myers-brilliant-documentary-on-shep-gordon/

Looking forward to reading this book!

“The Godfather” Reunion! Amazing Event For Movie Lovers!

New York’s Tribeca Film Festival had a terrific reunion panel on April 29th – the cast and crew of “The Godfather!”

This is my favorite film of all time – and won the Best Picture Oscar in 1972. The sequel is the only one to ever win Best Picture as well – this happened in 1974.

Here is how Deadline.com describe the event:

“The day began with an unlikely Saturday double-feature at Radio City Music Hall: Back-to-back screenings of The Godfather (1972) and The Godfather, Part II (1974), followed by a Q&A led by producer and director Taylor Hackford. The one-time-only reunion of the director and many of the original cast members included Coppola, Keaton, Pacino and Shire, along with James Caan (who played Sonny Corleone) and Robert Duvall (who played the consigliere Tom Hagen).”

NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 29: Diane Keaton, James Caan, Francis Ford Coppola, Al Pacino, Talia Shire, Robert Duvall and Robert DeNiro take a bow onstage during the panel for “The Godfather” 45th Anniversary Screening during 2017 Tribeca Film Festival closing night at Radio City Music Hall on April 29, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival)

Bravo to Getty Images for capturing this incredible event. The night was full of great new insight from the cast, including how Diane Keaton felt about the first film:

According to Deadline.com:

“I hadn’t watched it in 30 years,” Keaton said, addressing the director. “It’s so astonishing. Every choice you made, it’s so authentically good. And it had slow, long scenes. I was absolutely blown out of the ballpark, crying. And I was totally surprised because I didn’t expect it, OK? And on my f!cking computer! I’d never paid much attention to The Godfather, because I always felt like I was the most outsider, weird person, and why was I cast in it, and I had no voice in it.”

That’s amazing! However, her character takes on so much more depth in the sequel, especially in the most dramatic scene in the film – which Coppola revealed was because of a suggestion from his sister, Talia Shire!

“Coppola responded by recalling one of the most memorable moments in both films, between Keaton and Pacino. “You know the very important scene where you tell Al that it wasn’t a miscarriage, it was an abortion? That was Talia’s idea.” Coming right after having watched that scene on the huge Radio City Music Hall screen, the revelation registered like a small earthquake: Kay tells Michael she’s leaving him and drops the bombshell about her decision to terminate her pregnancy rather than bring another child into the Corleone clan. Gordon Willis’ camera is focused tightly on Pacino’s face, which fills the screen as his eyes grow wide with pain and fury and his lips stiffen in rage. It’s one of the few times in both films when Pacino allows Michael’s feelings to erupt, making the scene even more devastating.”

A terrific writeup from Deadline.com – see more of it here:

http://deadline.com/2017/04/pacino-copolla-godfather-cast-tribeca-film-festival-1202079761/

And look at THIS reunion!

NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 02: Robert De Niro and Al Pacino attend the SeriousFun Children’s Network Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street on April 2, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images)

Yes, that’s Al Pacino posing with his Dad – DeNiro was the young Don Corleone of course, but even though they didn’t act together in the sequel – they shared great stories as well.

DeNiro DID audition for the role of hot-headed Sonny Corleone in the original film, here is that audition video!

https://johnrieber.com/2014/07/19/the-godfather-screen-tests-robert-deniro-is-sonny-corleone-godfather-trivia/

Of course, there is so much great “Godfather” trivia:

Yes, the horse head was real! But the Actor wasn’t warned, so that is his real reaction to seeing it in his bed!

Here is even more great trivia as well:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/03/20/brandos-cue-cards-real-horse-heads-the-godfathers-best-stories/

Bravo to the Tribeca film festival for this important event!

Alec Baldwin IS Al Pacino!

Alec Baldwin was on Conan O’Brien’s show the other night and was talking about the recent “Godfather” reunion…it results in his “spot on” impersonations of Robert DeNiro, James Caan, and a long riff on the many voices of Al Pacino…hilarious!

Of course, this was all due to the recent “Godfather” reunion event at the Tribeca Film Festival..

This amazing event brought Francis Ford Coppola and his cast to the stage to discuss the movie and the legacy – check it out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/04/30/tribecas-the-godfather-reunion-great-film-trivia-deniro-pacino-keaton-coppola/

Of course, Baldwin had a memorable cameo in the Al Pacino film “Glengarry Glen Ross”…we all remember that!

Here’s great trivia: this scene wasn’t in the play, Mamet wrote it for Baldwin!

See it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/08/25/a-b-c-always-be-cheering-glengarrys-brightly-burning-movie-addition-alec-baldwin/

Bravo Alec!

My Movie Alphabet!

Yes, the poster art says “Vol. 2” – because I missed the first “go-round” on this fun exercise in cinema! A movie for every letter of the alphabet – who can refuse?

For many of us, this is our great escape – a movie auditorium where magic happens – I have seen so many incredible films in my life…oh, outside too!

I love this idea – thanks to “MettelRaySe7en” for doing this, here is the link to see how you can participate:

https://mettelray.wordpress.com/2017/05/01/mettelrayse7en-my-movie-alphabet-vol-2-blogathon-announcment/#comment-10520

Let’s get started with a film that, while fictional, captured one of the most exciting and influential pop culture changes in our nation’s history!

A – A Hard Day’s Night

Hard to imagine how culturally significant “Beatlemania” was in today’s social media world, but this film captures the pop culture impact of The Fab Four through a hilariously droll, fictional film the band starred in – how did they know to make this film so it would come out as they were taking over the world – what an achievement! If you want to see just how wild their first trip to the US was, check out the terrific documentary here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/06/the-beatles-first-us-tour-new-movie-the-fab-fours-segregation-battle-ron-howards-fascinating-new-beatles-documentary/

Next up is one of my top ten films of all time:

B – Boogie Nights

Paul Thomas Anderson shows the birth of adult cinema in LA’s San Fernando valley through the fictional story of Dirk Diggler…one of the greatest cinematic achievements ever, and career bests for the entire cast – see the “oral” history here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/12/11/dirk-digglers-livin-thing-70s-sex-80s-excess-the-oral-history-of-boogie-nights/

Here is another film from my “top ten of all time”:

C – Chinatown

This lost Best Picture in 1972 to the greatest film of all time – more on that in a minute, but Roman Polanski’s story of Los Angeles in the 40’s, as seen through our thirst for water – and power – still resonates today – read more about this classic film noir here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/02/19/forget-it-jake-its-chinatown-cynical-attitudes-and-sexual-motivations/

Ok, these were all fairly well known, let’s get obscure:

D – Darker Than Amber

This very obscure action film from 1970 has one of the most brutal – and REAL – onscreen fights ever captured – yes, the two main actors got carried away and the Director captured it all – see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/03/01/darker-than-amber-film-noirs-legendary-fight-scene-a-brutal-hidden-gem/

Next up is one of the most hypnotic films I’ve ever seen…

E – Enter The Void

Argentinian Director Gasper Noe uses “2001: A Space Odyssey” as his inspiration to tell the story of a young man killed in Tokyo, who floats over the city to observe life after his death – see the hypnotic trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/01/audacious-mind-blowing-cinema-enter-the-void-vanishing-waves-and-holy-motors/

Need some 70’s horror? Great, let’s head to France!

F – Fascination!

French Horror Director Jean Rollin made moody, cerebral horror films filled with nudity, blood and amazing images like this one:

See all of his incredible work from the 70’s here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/09/13/bloody-fascination-sexy-shockers-wildest-cult-horror-directors/

Now, time to celebrate the greatest film ever made:

G – The Godfather

For me, it is simply the greatest cinematic achievement in film history – beautifully acted, lyrical, violent and multi-layered to reveal something new each time I see it – and of course, Brando read from cue cards held by Robert Duvall!

One last bit of trivia – the horse’s head was real! Here is more on that:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/02/15/brandos-cue-cards-real-horse-heads-the-godfathers-best-stories-2/

Now, a film that was so good it had three different names!

H – Hookers Revenge!

I HAD to get a Christina Lindberg film on this list! She is the “Queen of Artsploitation”, and this one was so good they kept releasing it to grindhouse theaters with different titles! Officially known as “Thriller: A Cruel Picture” – it’s also AKA “They Call Her One Eye” and also AKA “Hooker’s Revenge” – even thought she doesn’t play a hooker in the movie!

She may have been mute in the film, but she really kicks some ass, and recently Christina spoke about her career – see that interview here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/08/11/christina-lindberg-speaks-the-queen-of-artsploitation-bares-all/

Christina Lindberg is my “grindhouse guilty pleasure”, but the next film is serious, compelling and vital:

I – The Island President

This documentary tells the story of one person trying to save his country from drowning – and the politics of climate change…so powerful and important, see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/05/07/the-island-president-a-tragic-compelling-documentary-a-nation-underwater/

The next film on my list is one of those “movie theater experiences” I will never forget…

J – Jackie Brown

Some Quentin Tarantino was overdue, but more importantly, some Pam Grier! He wrote it with her in mind, and she stars with a timeless swagger…just one of her great films, like “Black Mama White Mama” and the blaxploitation classic “Foxy Brown”…see her here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/03/21/black-mama-white-mama-queen-of-blaxploitation-pam-grier-naked-showers-women-in-prison-classics/

I was inspired by my friend Pete from Beetley, England…he is counting down his movies as well – you can follow along with them here:

https://beetleypete.wordpress.com/2017/05/10/a-z-film-challenge-day-ten/

Next up, a cerebral thriller with a very young Donald Sutherland…

K – Klute

A somewhat forgotten film from 1971, Jane Fonda won an Oscar for her portrayal of a lonely prostitute who is being watched by one of her clients…a young Donald Sutherland is also great…see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/06/01/klute-the-late-show-electra-glide-in-blue-three-obscure-film-noir-70s-classics/

Now, one of my top 5 favorite movies…

L – The Last Of Sheila

This terrific mystery puzzle of a film was written by Stephen Sondheim and “Psycho” Anthony Perkins! An all-star cast including James Mason James Coburn, Raquel Welch, Richard Benjamin and Ryan Cannon make this a must see – here is the trailer:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/06/29/psycho-and-sondheim-the-last-of-sheila-classic-hollywood-murder-mystery-richard-benjamin-rules/

Time for one of America’s greatest Actors to lighten up…

M – Midnight Run

“Why are you unpopular with the Chicago Police Department?” The greatest buddy/action film of all, the first time we discovered that Robert DeNiro could do comedy! See the new blu-ray here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/28/fistophobia-the-brilliant-but-neglected-buddy-action-comedy-midnight-run/

Next up, a European Actress from the 70’s who was naked in every single film she made!

N – Night Of A Thousand Desires!

I love Lina Romay – her haunting beauty and willingness to put it ALL out there – I mean, she is naked in every single film she made, and most of it was lovingly captured by her partner/husband Jess Franco – this is a great example of her hypnotic appeal, with a great blu-ray thanks to Mondo Macabro – see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/05/06/night-has-a-thousand-desires-lina-romays-cult-classic-jess-francos-sex-shocker/

Next up, my second favorite film of all time…

O – O Lucky Man!

This obscure British masterpiece was written by and starring Malcolm McDowell – right after “A Clockwork Orange” – it is a brilliant satire of a world gone mad with an equally brilliant soundtrack – see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/03/22/o-lucky-man-malcolm-mcdowells-seinfeld-connection/

Time for more 70’s stuff, this time a grindhouse classic:

P – Prime Cut

The “grindhouse” era of the 60’s and 70’s allowed studios to make gritty B-movies like this one, with lots of sex, nudity and violence, and many big stars willing jumped in! “Prime Cut” stars Gene Hackman, Lee Marvin and a VERY naked Sissy Spacek in her movie debut – see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/23/prime-cut-grindhouse-classic-gene-hackman-vs-lee-marvin/

Need more obscure classics?

Q – Q! The Winged Serpent

Legendary Exploitation Director Larry Cohen made this film about a “winged serpent” terrorizing New York – one of many great movies he made…here is a documentary about his life – and his wild wild work!

https://johnrieber.com/2017/05/08/king-cohen-exploitation-director-larry-cohen-killer-babies-winged-serpents-exploitation-master-dynamite-new-documentary/

I think a musical is in order….

R – Rude Boy

I grew up loving The Clash – but did you know they made a film? “Rude Boy” is the story of a roadie who dreams of success while following The Clash on their REAL tour of the UK at the end of the 70’s – and the birth of punk rock! This is terrific stuff – see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/09/the-clash-is-live-rude-boy-iconic-punk-music-meets-classic-cult-movie/

Another from my top twenty is next:

S – The Shawshank Redemption

One of the most inspiring movies ever made – brilliant from start to finish – Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman was flawless – click here to see the real “Zihuatanejo”:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/05/18/zihuatanejo-the-inspiring-greatness-of-the-shawshank-redemption/

Here is #3 on my list of greatest films:

T – Taxi Driver

Martin Scorsese and Paul Schrader capture the gritty streets of New York perfectly – as seen through the eyes of Travis Bickle – this masterpiece is still topical forty years on – see the anniversary reunion here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/04/21/travis-bickle-turns-40-taxi-driver-tribeca-screening-3-reasons-to-love-him-one-big-reason-to-hate/

OK, from masterpiece to Russ Meyer!

U – Up!

Need a break from the seriousness of the list – well, how about some Russ Meyer? The man who gave us “Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill!” also got us “Up!” See how here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/16/sexploitation-classics-the-russ-meyer-edition/

Need more grindhouse?

V – The Virgin Witch

I love the sexploitation era of the 60’s and 70’s as you can see, and films like “The Virgin Witch” are the reason why…virgin witches baring all for our pleasure – see how here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/17/bloody-witchcraft-horror-sexy-virgin-witches-halloween-2015-heats-up/

Another from my top twenty is next:

W – Withnail & I

Simply the greatest British comedy ever – Richard E. Grant is brilliant, and the film is acerbic, insightful, and hilariously funny – read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/04/10/withnail-i-30th-anniversary-classic-80s-cult-comedy-richard-e-grant-tell-all-book-with-nails/

Some letters of the alphabet are better sung than spoken…

X – Xanadu

What, you don’t want an 80’s musical with a rollerskating Olivia Newton-John? I included “Xanadu” because it’s so “of its time”, and because it also has a terrific soundtrack from The Electric Light Orchestra! Here’s proof:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/02/25/elo-rocks-the-grammy-awards-brilliant-70s-orchestra-rock-jeff-lynnes-beatles-love/

Mel Brooks was a brilliant filmmaker, and here is one example:

Y – Young Frankenstein

The funniest film ever? Well, argue amongst yourselves, but Brooks competes with himself for that title (“Blazing Saddles!”), and this film gives Gene Hackman – yes, GENE HACKMAN! A chance to show how funny he is! To celebrate this legendary Actors birthday, I highlighted his ten best roles:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/30/happy-birthday-gene-hackman-ten-roles-that-defined-a-hollywood-legend/

Finally, I leave you with Bond, James Bond…well, this next film is a 007 you’ve never seen before!

Z – Zardoz!

Yes, that’s 007 in a bright red loincloth! But WHY? The answer lies in one of the wackiest films ever committed to celluloid – the lunacy of “Zardoz.” Click to see some of the hilariously “WTF” dialogue and trailer!

https://johnrieber.com/2012/10/01/suspiria-caligula-zardoz-wacky-one-word-movie-wonders/

Well, I tried to showcase movies you knew and many you didn’t, so let me know what you think!

Scream Factory’s Amazing Sale! Incredible Special Edition Blu-Rays For Fans!

Movie fans, do I have a deal for you!

I have posted about some of the Scream Factory special edition releases before, because they LOVE cult films and are bringing terrific special editions to life…and now, they have a 50% off sale!

Head over to their parent company “Shout Factory” to see their incredible inventory:

Here is the link:

https://www.shoutfactory.com

Here are a few highlights of their catalog, as well as some details on the incredibly over-stuffed blu-ray special editions!

Let’s begin with one of my top ten favorite films of all time:

Carrie!

Brian DePalma directed one of horror’s greatest films, starring Sissy Spacek as a young girl with “special” powers:

Here are some of the bonus features on sale now:

DISC ONE:
NEW 4K Scan Of The Original Negative
Original Theatrical Trailer (HD)
Carrie Franchise Trailer Gallery
DISC TWO:
NEW More Acting Carrie – featuring interviews with Nancy Allen, Betty Buckley, William Katt, Piper Laurie, Edie McClurg and P.J. Soles (20 minutes)
NEW Writing Carrie – an interview with screenwriter Lawrence Cohen (29 minutes)
NEW Cutting Carrie – an interview with editor Paul Hirsch (25 minutes)
NEW Shooting Carrie – an interview with director of photography Mario Tosi (15 min)
NEW Casting Carrie –an interview with casting director Harriet B. Helberg (16 min)
NEW Bucket of Blood – a new interview with composer Pino Donaggio (24 minutes)
NEW Horror’s Hallowed Grounds – Revisiting The Film’s Original Locations (11 minutes)
Acting Carrie – Interviews With Actors Sissy Spacek, Amy Irving, Betty Buckley, Nancy Allen, William Katt, Piper Laurie, Priscilla Pointer and P.J. Soles And Art Director Jack Fisk And Director Brian De Palma (43 minutes)
Visualizing Carrie – Interviews With Brian De Palma, Jack Fisk, Lawrence D. Cohen, Paul Hirsch (41 minutes)
A Look At “Carrie: The Musical” (6 minutes) – TV Spots – Radio Spots
Still Gallery – Rare Behind-The-Scenes Photos, Posters And Lobby Cards
Stephen King And The Evolution Of Carrie Text Gallery

I mean – WOW! See more about this classic horror film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/30/shocktober-day-30-brilliant-carrie-brian-depalmas-horror-classics-star-wars-connection/

Speaking of great horror films:

The Thing!

Remember the iconic tagline?

“Man Is The Warmest Place To Hide”

This is one of the most shocking horror films ever made, thanks to Director John Carpenter!

Here are the abundant bonus features on this 50% off blu-ray:

DISC ONE:
NEW 2K Scan Of The Interpositive Supervised And Approved By Director Of Photography Dean Cundey
NEW 4.1 Audio Mix Created From The Original 70MM Six Track Dolby Stereo Soundtrack (5.1 Audio Mix Also Included)
NEW Audio Commentary With Director Of Photography Dean Cundey
NEW Audio Commentary With Co-producer Stuart Cohen
Audio Commentary By Director John Carpenter And Actor Kurt Russell
Teaser Trailer (1 minute) – Theatrical Trailers (U.S. And German) (5 minutes)
TV Spots (1 minute) – Radio Spots (2 minutes)
Still Gallery (Behind-The-Scenes Photos, Posters And Lobby Cards) (15 minutes)

DISC TWO:
NEW Requiem For A Shape Shifter – An Interview With Director John Carpenter In Conversation With Filmmaker Mick Garris (28 minutes)
NEW The Men Of Outpost 31 – Interviews With Keith David, Wilford Brimley, David Clennon, Thomas Waites, Peter Maloney, Richard Masur And Joel Polis (51 minutes)
NEW Assembling And Assimilation – An Interview With Editor Todd Ramsay (11 minutes)
NEW Behind The Chameleon: The Sights Of THE THING – Interviews With Visual Effects Artists Peter Kuran And Susan Turner, Special Make-up Effects Artist Rob Burman, Brian Wade And Stop Motion Animators Randall William Cook And Jim Aupperle (25 minutes)
NEW Sounds From The Cold – Interviews With Supervising Sound Editor David Lewis Yewdall And Special Sound Effects Designer Alan Howarth (15 minutes)
NEW Between The Lines – An Interview With Novelization Author Alan Dean Foster (16 minutes)
NEW Back Into The Cold: A Return To The Shooting Locations Of THE THING – An Animated Photo Gallery Narrated By Todd Cameron Of Outpost31.com
NEW The Art Of Mike Ploog Gallery (12 minutes)
John Carpenter’s The Thing: Terror Takes Shape – A Documentary On The Making Of THE THING Featuring Interviews With John Carpenter, Kurt Russell, Special Effects Make-up Designer Rob Bottin, Legendary Matte Artist Albert Whitlock Plus Members Of The Cast And Crew (80 minutes – SD)
Network TV Broadcast Version Of THE THING (92 minutes – SD)
Outtakes (5 minutes – SD)
Vintage Featurettes From The Electronic Press Kit Featuring Interviews With John Carpenter, Kurt Russell And Rob Bottin (13 minutes – SD)
Vintage Featurettes – The Making Of A Chilling Tale And The Making Of THE THING (14 minutes – SD)
Vintage Product Reel – Contains A Condensed Version Of The Film With Additional Footage Not In The Film (19 minutes – SD)
Vintage Behind-The-Scenes Footage (2 minutes – SD)
Annotated Production Archive – Production Art And Storyboards, Location Scouting, Special Make-up Effects, Post Production (54 minutes – SD)

It’s a treasure trove for movie lovers – see more about this great film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/26/the-thing-shocks-halloween-horror-day-26-man-is-the-warmest-place-to-hide/

Need some classic sci-fi-fi laced with plenty of 80’s nudity? Well, here you go!

Lifeforce!

This classic British film is chock full of shocks and skin…

Look at what you can get for 50% off:

The Blu-ray Contains Both The Theatrical Cut And The Longer, Director Approved Cut

Bonus Features
Audio Commentary with Director Tobe Hooper
Audio Commentary with Makeup Effects artist Nick Maley
New interviews with Mathilda May, Steve Railsback and Director Tobe Hooper
Theatrical Trailers – TV Spot – Still Gallery

See more about this film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/06/17/lifeforce-the-amazingly-naked-80s-sci-fi-horror-cult-classic-is-back/

An obscure, offbeat horror film is not only brand new to blu-ray, but also on sale!

Willard!

The creepy story of a young man who makes friends with killer rats!

Bonus features include:

NEW 4K Scan Of The Original camera Negative
NEW Audio Commentary With Actor Bruce Davison
NEW Interview With Actor Bruce Davison
Theatrical Trailer – TV Spot – Radio Spots – Still Gallery

Read more about this classic 70’s film – and Oscar-nominated sequel “Ben!” by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/02/killer-rat-horror-willard-michael-jacksons-ben-love-song-jacksons-oscar-night-performance/

Finally, Shout Factory has done a great job preserving classic Bruce Lee films:

Game Of Death!

This is the movie Lee was making when he died – the blu-ray has these bonus features:

DISC ONE: The U.S. Version (100 min.)
NEW 4K Transfer From The Internegative
Audio Commentary With Asian Film Expert Mike Leeder
Game Of Death Revisited
Game Of Death Locations
Outtake Montage – Deleted Scenes
Alternate Opening And Ending
Bloopers – Theatrical Trailers – Still Gallery – Japanese Print In HD

DISC TWO: The Mandarin/Cantonese Version (90 min.)
NEW 4K Transfer From The Internegative
NEW Trailer Gallery

Here is much more on Bruce Lee – an icon who will live forever – click here to see the amazing one-on-one fight he had for this film with Karen Abdul-Jabbar!

https://johnrieber.com/2015/04/25/dj-bruce-lee-robert-downey-jr-avengers-age-of-ultron-action-hero-mashup-nunchuck-mania/

Bravo to Scream Factory for their incredible sale!