JOHNNY CHAZZ' TURN: AMERICAN PRIDE IN FILMS

JOHNNY CHAZZ: Just recently as a country the United States honored that tragic day of September 11, 2011 – hence, the inspiration for this week’s topic on Cinema: Counterpoint.

This week I would like to examine the top-10 films that not only honor American pride, but also symbolize and reflect upon what America is all about. Imagine for a moment that you have never seen a film shot on American soil and have been subjected to foreign films your whole life. What is American culture all about? How do the locations and interiors differ from foreign films? How are these films shot? How do characters act and perform and what is their primary motivation in these types of films? This is the topic for the week of September 14-20.

Here is Johnny Chazz’s top-10 list for best “American-Pride” films:

1. AMERICAN GRAFFITI: From the cars to Mel’s Diner and the amazing soundtrack, this film is completely iconic of American culture. How much more American can you get than casting Richard Dreyfuss and Ron Howard? From the sock hops to the drag racing and cruising, every scene is a trip inside a time machine to one the most memorable and happy times in the lives of American youth. Each character learns what it means to struggle, to laugh, to cry, and to not only live in the moment but also think about the future before them in the land of freedom where anything is possible. What remains amazing is that the film was shot in less than a month on a fairly low budget. Still, it remains a classic.

2. EASY RIDER: This coast to coast film is representative of American culture in so many ways. The soundtrack is rock-and-roll based with some classic folk tunes thrown in. The locations are rustic, yet scenic and a perfect identity of what the American landscape looks like. The characters have heart, but remain rebels throughout without losing their compassion. A glimpse into “hippie” America and the world of alcohol, bikes and drugs are wonderfully depicted.
Check out the intro accompanied by Steppenwolf's "Born to be Wild!"

3. TAXI DRIVER: The working man – or better yet, the blue collar American has always been the backbone of our society. People in America are willing to take any job and any shift just to make ends meet and that is what makes this country so strong allowing for opportunity. Travis Bickle represents the true-American who is lonely, resentful, angry, passionate and wants to be loved. The interiors and the exterior sets represent the seedy side of NYC to a “T” and the soundtrack sets the mood for the entire film revealing the desperation inside of all of us waiting to lash out.

4. WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?: Taylor and Burton are teamed together in a film that is shot 80% within a single space – the living room. Exteriors are limited, but still resemble what America is all about even in those sparse moments. The scene outside of the roadside bar shows a winding road with few cars and a neon sign flickering in the background offering dancing and food. How American is this? What is fundamental however is the way in which “couples” who have reached that level of comfort in their relationship begin to abuse one another in such a fashion that cruelty and contempt become a face of everyday life. Still, the dialogue is highly cerebral and wonderfully written for these shrewd characters, but the idea of marriage being a sort of “war zone” is everlasting throughout the film. The film is intense, controversial and violent in terms of language. To put it short, once the long night comes to an end and the sun rises, we as an audience feel as though we have spent 50 years in this miserable marriage. It works on so many levels and is as American as can be.
View this intense moment between Taylor and Burton !

5. ROCKY: How can Rocky not be included on this list? The idea of the small-town man becoming a National hero is exactly what America preaches. Anyone can become anything if they put in the time and effort required – but desire and heart are fundamental to success. Rocky is really an outstanding film and stands the test of time simply because it celebrates everything about the heart of the American people – and sports are a huge part of that. The balance of the boxing world and the love story (Stallone and Shire) are also iconic of American culture. The locations and interiors represent the East-Coast style of living and Conti’s soundtrack is a must-have for anyone who wants to wake up tomorrow and jog 20 miles without stopping. Rocky defines the American dream.

6. THE DEER HUNTER: There are so many films dealing with the “Vietnam” war and even WWII that could make my list, but I chose the “Deer Hunter” for the very fact that it is split into three acts. The very fact that we are dealing with Pennsylvania steel workers who are not only bonded by the union but also by friendship is so symbolic of America in itself. Still, is the idea of being a steel worker the American dream? The dream quickly becomes a nightmare as the young men leave the wedding party (an amazing sequence on so many levels) and realize the horrors of Vietnam. Still, it is their friendship, love and devotion for one another combined with American pride that gets them through the war (at least most of them). The performances are first-rate, the music is understated and the locations (i.e.: The mountain scenes in the early a.m.) are tremendous. This film is a true character study that takes a look at both what it means to live as an American and what it means to die as one.

7. SILVERADO: So many westerns have been iconic of American culture over the past 60+ years, but I chose “Silverado” for this week’s purpose. Filmed in 1985, we are given an extraordinary cast that offers standout performances. The genre was dying during the 1980’s (“Pale Rider” aside) and Silverado really shined because of that very reason. Silverado is entertaining throughout every moment of the film and the vibrant script combined with the realistic action scenes make for an outstanding and memorable Western. The scenery and the locations used (New Mexico) are ideal to symbolize America’s Old West during the early 1900’s. As I always say, even if you are not a fan of Westerns, take a chance with Silverado – bet you will love it!

This great video incorporates the theme by Bruce Broughton

8. AMERICAN BEAUTY: There are a few films out there that are similar to the message and images conveyed by “American Beauty” (“Far From Heaven” may be a terrific example) but I chose this film for a number of reasons. In this film we take a look at suburban life-style in America and the two primary differences between this film and “Virginia Woolf” in that sense is the idea that we are dealing not only with a family structure with a real child involved, but that the abusive language and behaviors remain contained and bottled-up until the climax of the film. The visual style of the film is what really makes it work – and in a sense it is as American as can be since it is somewhat a reflection of the works of Norman Rockwell. The camerawork is intelligent and thoughtful as well as the score that couples it. Still, the film has a nice blend of fantasy and reality within it showcasing that our characters are living in a sort of dream-state hoping to wake up. This film really made a name for “DreamWorks” studios and was not only Oscar-worthy, but should be considered one of the most intuitive and creative films ever made in America.

9. THE LAST PICTURE SHOW: Every aspect of this film is a pure and accurate depiction of American life during the early1950’s in the small-town atmosphere. Director Bogdanovich created an atmosphere on the set and in front of the camera that quickly placed the audience in the middle of this desolate, West-Texas town where nothing really ever happens. Life is slow – that is for sure. The performances are formidable and both the sets and the dialogue are second to none. What is highly intriguing about the film is that there is really no soundtrack. The film relies on the music played on juke-boxes or car radios. This in itself represents what American pop-culture is all about – at least in this part of the world and at this moment in time. The innocence of youth is examined in this film as well as their respect for authority. How spell-binding is it that we see very few adults in the film (at least in terms of screen time) combined with the tumbleweeds blowing across the screen almost symbolizing that these young people are really on their own in this world. Escaping the small town atmosphere and monotony is really the motivation here and so is the cast for so many Americans who reside in these types of locales.
Enjoy the classic original 1971 theatrical trailer!

10. PARIS, TEXAS: Director Wim Wenders put together a masterpiece that is as American as apple pie. The opening scene shows a man walking through the desert in a desperate condition who eventually winds up at a run-down bar. What we learn as the film progresses is that the initial visual is reflective of the character’s emotional state and condition. In essence, the film is about loss and bonding at the same time. It is also a film about sacrifice and the difference between the love for a child and the love for a woman. The use of hues and red lighting to give the neon and the rain a vibrant look are outstanding techniques and visuals making the film so enjoyable to the eye. The sets resemble so many aspects of American life including suburban America (the valley in Los Angeles), the desert regions, Texas, and more. The interiors are equally impressive including the scene where the Super 8 is played back as well as the interior of the strip club / gentleman’s club with the one-way mirror. We are also given a mini-version of a road-trip which is also a tool used in so many “American” films. The film is honest, the characters are beautifully casted, and the story will bring even the hardest of hearts to tears in the final scenes.

JER: A most touching and heartfelt subject with a strong “top ten” list to boot. This will be difficult, but I will express my “top ten” list and its reasons for making it onto the list.

10. PRETTY WOMAN: Although this movie has slowly deteriorated from my list of enjoyment, I will say that it tells the story of a woman wanting to achieve her goals no matter the costs… even if it means whoring yourself on Hollywood Boulevard! Julia Roberts became quite annoying for me after this film, but I could take her in the role of a smart gal just wanting to live the dream and be independent. Along comes her Prince Charming, in the form of dapper Richard Gere, which closes the story book tale and everyone lives “Happily Ever After.” Sappy, sugary and unbelievable… maybe I should have gone with WORKING GIRL under the premise, but I cannot say no to a film shot on Hollywood Blvd. Damn you, Garry Marshall!

9. 1941: Maybe not director Steven Spielberg’s most crowning achievement in cinematic history, but the film works on many levels. It portrays the enemies as a bunch of goof-balls; the film is taking place at the dawn of World War II with many innuendos of panic, fear and distrust that has put a country in high- end alert since the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The film’s pace is chaotic and off- the – wall with plenty of American soldiers, planes, bombings and shootings to fill five action films! The bottom line of the film? We will protect our land, no matter the costs… even in a screwball comedy!

A fabulous montage of clips featuring the 'March' by John Williams

8. PLEASANTVILLE: A movie that captures “Americana” in a time when it felt safe to leave the door un-locked and Television didn’t know what re-runs were. Starring newcomers Toby Maguire and Reese Witherspoon, two teenagers growing up in the 1990’s get ‘zapped’ into the world of a 1950’s sitcom. The reminders of a ‘simpler time’ are abundantly present in the black and white world of the sitcom- land the two teens inhabit. It’s all apple pies and poodle skirts in this nostalgic blast from the past!

7. THE PLAYER: It is no surprise that America isn’t all baseball and backyard bbqs! Even in the land where dreams can come true, Hollywood has always been infamous for its fake and back-stabbing shallowness! Welcome to director Robert Altman’s world of the deceiving and the deceived! A blackmailed Studio Executive, played by Tim Robbins, would stop at nothing to clear himself while the facades of Hollywood and the film industry is used as the back drop in this dark- comedy drama.
The intriging original 1992 trailer from director Robert Altman

6. SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER: Why would I include a disco movie with music by the Bee- Gees in a list of American Pride? Simple, it spells freedom and the ability to express oneself as you please…especially for 1970’s Brooklyn. John Travolta plays the iconic Tony Manero, a New York Italiano- Americano street-wise punk who knows he’s got the looks and the dance moves to snatch up any girl he wants! He works at a paint store throughout the week and blows his paychecks at the local discothèque. It is not a happy or uplifting film... it is told with realistic bite that is masked as a ‘dance flick.’ If the popular soundtrack is stripped away, you get a taunt and unforgiving tale of racist and sexist ‘gweedos’ who pop pills and drink too much booze on a quick path to nowhere.

5. THE NEW WORLD: Director Terrence Mallick presents a very realistic and heavily- researched account of 17^th century living as explorer Captain John Smith (Colin Farrell) lands on Native American land to discover its people and Pocahontas (Q’orianka Kilcher). Not one of the proudest moments in American history, but a story that needs to be told nonetheless. The film focuses on the slow takeover of a land rightfully belonging to a people not wanting anything to do with modern men and his thoughts and lifestyles.

The original 2005 trailer for THE NEW WORLD

4. THE UNTOUCHABLES: Director Brian DePalma turns the clock back to 1920’s Chicago: a time of Prohibition. With illegal booze sneaking its way through the streets, the Police create an elite team that will stop at nothing to fight fire with fire. Led by Federal Agent Elliott Ness (Kevin Costner), the squad that would be better be known as ‘untouchables’ (they cannot be bought under the table as most police were) the crack team marks a bold target at mob boss Al Capone (Robert DeNiro). With a patriotic soundtrack that swells in triumph as it roots for the good guys in their darkest hours, the film makes you want to stick- out your chest in confidence and pride as justice is delivered!

3. SCARFACE: Another film by director Brian DePalma, this time capturing the tale of how the American Dream can be achieved and lost in a blink of a careless eye. Al Pacino embodies the immortal character of Tony Montana, a Cuban refugee that escapes the dregs of Cuba in 1980 and lands in America… well, Florida to be precise. What would you do for power? Montana stops at nothing as his greed and determination quickly raises him from low- class street scum to high- end dope peddler. The premise reminds anyone that fortune awaits those who want it, but also the extreme lifestyle and paranoia that comes with making enemies along the path to power.

2. PLATOON: Winner of Best Picture for 1987, director Oliver Stone drew from his own accounts during his tours in Vietnam during the war. The recognition and reality of young teen boys, average age rank of 19 years old, follows a platoon through uncharted jungles with danger cropping within the terrain and the men themselves as a division occurs between troop leaders. The first of its kind, the film presented a realistic look at war, violence and the madness that occurred in a land unfamiliar to many.

1. THE PATRIOT: My top choice falls upon director Roland Emerick’s cinematic and epic telling of a family and its wiliness to not participate within the American Revolution. Mel Gibson stars as Benjamin Martin, a man whose previous life is best kept locked up in a foot locker along his bedside, fights to keep his sons at bay and not participate in a war that will only bring grievance to all. The film brings a hardening telling as continued grief plaques the Martins as they fend to survive the British armies closing in on their land and threatening to take all that they desire to take. The film takes itself very serious at times, as the militia sneaks surprise attacks on the unexpected soldiers and it plays on the patriotic emotions of any real red- blooded American who would take up a musket and ride alongside for the defending of a land…a land known as the United States of America!

Themes by John Williams accompanying clips from the film

JOHNNY CHAZZ: Well, this actually totals twenty (20) different films that we are offering our reading / blog audience here on C.C. If I am not mistaken Jer, I think this is the first time (maybe ever) that we have put together a top-10 list and not had a single film that matched - the lists are completely different, yet still serve the purpose for this week.

I must commend a few of your selections in particular as being outstanding selections for the blog: #2 PLATOON was a film I considered, but I went with another war film instead - a tough decision of course. Also, your #4 selections of "THE UNTOUCHABLES" is really sharp and probably makes my top-20 list for the topic. It is a period piece with tremendous attention to detail and life in American pre-Depression.

Your selection of "THE PLAYER" is also intriguing, although as excellent as the film is I am not sure it really offered me a feeling of American pride - however, it did closely examine a piece of America - frankly that being the inner-workings of the film industry in Hollywood which really defined America for so many years.

So, this wraps up another segment of Cinema: Counterpoint - this time honoring those films that warm the hearts and minds of American audiences making us ever so proud to be a part of such a terrific country. Until next week when Jer takes us on a brand new ride – we will SEE YOU NEXT WEDNESDAY!

Have you visited the official CINEMA: COUNTERPOINT page on YOUTUBE? Check out classic and contemporary trailers, scenes and other great trips down memory lane! Just click the link and check out the "Favorites" on our site! Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/user/cinemacounterpoint?feature=mhee

JER'S TURN: SINGERS/ MUSICIANS IN FILM- THE HITS AND MISSES

JER: After a weekend of watching some classic films on Labor Day-long television, including THEY DIED WITH THEIR BOOTS ON with Errol Flynn and WITH SIX YOU GET EGGROLL with Doris Day and Brian Keith, it made me think of this generation of Hollywood stars and where they are coming from … or where they are going?

“Stars” was a term used to express a level of sophistication and studio priming to bring an actor to a certain level of publicity worth! They graced the covers of popular magazines, made big studio films, wined and dined in the most popular places to be seen and they were considered West Coast royalty.

Like the film industry, something got lost along the way… today’s actors do not have that level of respect and make it to a tabloid cover faster that the extend of their short- lived careers. Is talent so sparse that Hollywood opens its doors to the music industry for thespian assistance? It definitely has been the case for about 60 years… which now brings me to this week’s topic of discussion. I wanted to focus on the music industry’s gift of talented (or untalented) offerings that have had their hand in acting, including the hits and misses!

To begin with, I would like to recognize a handful of musicians/ singers who have successfully made the transition to respected actors amongst their peers, critics and the viewing audience.

ELVIS PRESLEY: Like it or not, the ‘King of Rock and Roll’ made a total of 31 films in his short lifetime… some were hits and some were definite misses… but the sum outweighed the limited talents. Eddie Murphy once joked that Elvis could just sing his dialog. The song hits kept coming and Elvis kept churning the movies out. He played an Army specialist (G.I. BLUES), a stock car driver (SPEEDWAY) and an innocent cowboy (CHARRO!). Was his acting chops considered a hit or a miss? Seeing that the King has been dead for over 30 years and is just as popular today as he was in his hay-day, well, I will leave that to your conclusion…

DAVID BOWIE: Ever since his grand debut in the 1976 cult classic, THE MAN WHO FELL TO EARTH, the ‘Thin White Duke’ has contributed his unique acting abilities in over 25 films. The native London boy has made a very distinctive nitch with a number of pop- culture favorites including the aging vampire John (THE HUNGER), Jareth the Goblin King (LABYRINTH), Pontius Pilate (THE LAST TEMPTATION OF CHRIST) and Andy Warhol (BASQUIAT). Like the characters that Bowie has played on stage between his embodiments of Ziggy Stardust and the Duke, his attention to details have translated to film when it comes to his acting abilities. This is a man who can do great music and great films… period!

DIANA ROSS: Although better known as Motown royalty, Ms Ross did dabble into the film industry and garnered much respect including a 1972 Best Actress nomination for her portrayal of Billie Holiday in LADY SINGS THE BLUES. On the heals of her nomination, Ross would give a solid one- two punch with her following film as Tracy in 1975’s MAHOGANY. Sadly enough, attention was better spend in the studio instead of in front of the camera. Her unique take on Dorothy in the 1978 film version of the Broadway hit THE WIZ wasn’t considered a box office hit. A strong woman that only needed a few films to make her mark on the silver screen.

View this clip of Diana Ross from MAHOGANY

CHER: You may only remember her in her most recent return to film with the 2010 clunker BURLESQUE, but Cher’s career is longstanding with a number of solid performances that earned her a well- deserved Best Actress Academy Award for her 1987 portrayal of Loretta Castorini in MOONSTRUCK. I would want to bring your attention to such films as 1983’s SILKWOOD, 1985’s MASK, 1987’s THE WITCHES OF EASTWICK with honorable mentions towards SUSPECT and MERMAIDS. From her humble beginnings as a sidekick to Sonny Bono in the 1960’s, Cher would show strong legs by standing solo in the music industry and be taken as a serious actress in the decades to come. An interesting point to mention was that Cher was born in El Centro, CA…which is but a 10 minute drive from my hometown of Calexico, CA.

MARK WAHLBERG: Who can ever forget the one- hit wonder “Good Vibrations” when he was better known as Markey- Mark! Well, it would be but a few years later until Mark would drop the Markey and pull up his below- the- waist pants and begin an illustrious career as an actor. My attention was immediately caught in his chilling 1996 lead actor debut in FEAR. He would get added respect and recognition as the infamous Dirk Diggler in 1997’s BOOGIE NIGHTS. Personally, I would have had the pleasure of working with Wahlberg in 1999’s THE THREE KINGS. On set, Mark with a calm and cool individual who went out of his way to bring forth the best performance he could deliver. Other films worth mentioning are THE PERFECT STORM, THE ITALIAN JOB, THE DEPARTED and SHOOTER. Today, Wahlberg is not only a respected actor but a very successful television (HBO’s Entourage) and film (THE FIGHTER) producer.

KRIS KRISTOFFERSON: Already having created a name as a songwriter in the late 60’s, Kristofferson would begin singing and performing his songs in the early 70’s. At just about the same time, he would star alongside fellow singer Bob Dylan in 1973’s PAT GARRETT AND BILLY THE KID followed the male lead in director Martin Scorsese’s 1974 ALICE DOESN’T LIVE HERE ANYMORE. Other late 70’s films would include A STAR IS BORN with Barbra Streisand and the truck driving Rubber Duck in CONVOY. 1980 would mark a controversial turning point by starring in director Michael Cimino’s disastrous HEAVEN’S GATE. The film would be responsible for the bankruptcy of United Artists. Kristofferson would continue work in television, but would make a comeback as the cult figure Whistler in the vampire BLADE series starring Wesley Snipes.
Here's a great music video to Kristofferson's CONVOY! 10-4!

WILL SMITH: ‘The Fresh Prince’ could probably never had believed how his acting career would had blown up after having appeared in the critically- acclaimed SIX DEGREES OF SEPERATION in 1993. Within the next few short years, the blockbusters would quickly follow. BAD BOYS, INDEPENDENCE DAY, MEN IN BLACK, BAD BOYS and I, ROBOT are just a small selection of films that has had Hollywood dubbing him “the million- dollar man." My personal favorite and highly recommended film: SEVEN POUNDS.

Other honorable mentions would go to DOLLY PARDON (9 TO 5, BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS, STEEL MAGNOLIAS) and JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE (ALPHA DOG, THE SOCIAL NETWORK, BAD TEACHER),

Here’s a look at some actors that should maybe stick to the music biz instead…

KEITH RICHARD: Only having just appeared in two films playing Captain Teague in THE PIRATES OF THE CARRIBEAN series. Jack Sparrow was better off not introducing us to his father. I have seen livelier Pirates in the Disney park attraction! Yo Ho that one!

L.L. COOL J: With appearances in TOYS (1992), DEEP BLUE SEA (1999), ROLLERBALL (2002) and SWAT (2003) it is safe to say that L.L. needs to stay out of making films and pick up the microphone again with another ‘rapper turned actor’ comes crawling out of the sludge.

ICE CUBE: I had much respect for what he presented in music during his N.W.A days…even débuting in the very powerful BOYZ N THE HOOD in 1991! Having appeared in Walter Hill’s (48 HRS, THE WARRIORS) TRESPASS in 1992 and 1995’s HIGHER LEARNING, it would almost seem as if ICE’s career was going to continue climbing sky high. A turn towards the comedic FRIDAY series was well accepted, but some doubtful choices were made (ANACONDA, BARBERSHOP, ARE WE THERE YET?) starting creating a very soft, almost dumbed- down reflection of characters he was allowing himself to play.

CHRISTINA AGUILERA: It would be unfair to say that the Pop Princess show be judged by a single film, but BURLESQUE is that one film she elected to make her start with. I think she could develop to a much better actress if allowed to expand her horizons a little more…maybe more dramatic roles. Not a good start, Chris.

JOHNNY CHAZZ: Great topic this week Jer and your line-up of musicians / film actors here is hard to beat. I do have a list of my own that I would also like to share with our readers in hopes to offer a larger array of talent to our segment this week. So, as they say.....Ladies first.

BARBRA STREISAND: is a slam-dunk winner in this category. From "Funny Girl" and "What's Up Doc" to films such as "Yentl" and "The Mirror Has Two Faces", Streisand has proved to me, time and again, that Hollywood has got her all wrong and that she will always have the last laugh. Her talent as a singer and performer are second to none and her knack for genuine and honest performances in front of the camera also remain at a high level. Unfortunately, "Meet the Fockers" was her most recent appearance on screen and that was duly forgetful.

Enjoy the trailer from YENTL starring and directed by Barbra Streisand

BETTE MIDLER likely would be next for me in the female category. Films such as "The Rose", and "Beaches" are definite stand-outs where she received an Oscar for the first, and performed the entire soundtrack to the latter.

Now, I must go with your on your selection of CHER. Here is a true diva that was not only Oscar worthy in “Mask” and “Moonstruck”, but her music has always been daring to the point of truly pushing the envelope. It is a shame that Cher has virtually disappeared from the screen over the past decade.

MADONNA is also worth mentioning. She was pretty decent in her roles in both "Dick Tracy" as well as "Evita" and although her singing ability probably outweighs her acting talents, both are noteworthy for the purpose of this discussion.

I must also agree with you on your selection of DIANA ROSS in this category, Jer - as "Lady Sings The Blues" was certainly the film that launched both her acting and singing career (post-Supremes) to another level giving her true "diva" status. As you mentioned, Jer, I highly agree that her role in "The Wiz" should also be marked as a career highlight on screen.

Honorable mentions in this category would go to: Judy Garland and Julie Andrews. I cannot make a case for Jennifer Hudson (singing talent is vastly overrated in this critic's opinion) or for Mariah Carey (her acting talent seems limited as well as the quality of her films......"Glitter"???)

Changing gears now, let's take a look at some of the “gentlemen" musicians who have blessed us with their screen presence.

Off the top, your selection of ELVIS PRESLEY, Jer, is an outstanding one that must be honored. His talents both on screen and as a musician for nearly three (3) decades are second to none. Films that immediately come to mind ranking among my favorites are: "Viva Las Vegas", and "Jailhouse Rock.” The mesh between Elvis and Ann Margaret cannot be stressed enough - pure excellence. Ann Margaret, by the way, is another who should be given at least honorable mention in our blog this week.

Here is a scene from the 1957 JAILHOUSE ROCK

CURTIS MAYFIELD was such a talent both musically and lyrically and cannot be overlooked for his work on screen especially in many of the black-sploitation films including the unforgettable and ever-funky "Superfly".

How can we not ride the bandwagon of DAVID BOWIE my good friend? The films you listed sums up his film career quite well, and this is a performer who is not only a pure talent as a musician, but an actor who I would really like to see re-surface in starring roles over the next 5-10 years.

FRANK SINATRA is a must on this list. As a singer, nobody ever has or likely ever will match his ability to transform a standard with such phrasing and class. As an actor, 'Blue Eyes was just magnificent. We often think of "Ocean's Eleven", but there were so many other roles where he shined including (but not limited to): "Pal Joey", "The Manchurian Candidate" and "The Joker is Wild". Perhaps I am a bit biased residing in Las Vegas and being a lover of this town's history, but Frank was more than a singer and an actor - he was the ultimate legend in performance.

Few people are really aware of how many songs that Kris Kristofferson was responsible for writing. His "Me and Bobby McGee" later performed by Janis Joplin probably takes the cake, but there were so many other hits. Remember the record that Travis Bickle purchased for Cybil Shepherd in "Taxi Driver"? Kristofferson is making a true comeback in film these days and his musicianship and lyrical talent influenced by Cash and Dylan have endured over the past four (4) decades. His performances in "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore" (highly recommended by J. Chazz) and ”A Star is Born" (Streisand yet again) are unforgettable along with recent work with John Mellencamp and writer Stephen King (last week's blog.) Having recently watched "Bloodworth" was also a treat and the songs in that film are still inspiring and reminiscent of a tremendous career for this country / folk singer.

Now, this final list may sound like a bizarre combination, but I must give honorable mentions to: Dean Martin, Ice Cube and Willie Nelson for their roles as musicians to also make outstanding film appearances.

JER:  Honorable mention to Ice Cube? Why? As previously mentioned, the only film worth mentioning would be BOYZ N THE HOOD. Other minor mentions would be THREE KINGS and maybe FRIDAY… that is about it!

How could I have forgotten Barbra Streisand and Bette Midler? Frank Sinatra? Ugh… I cannot believe these names didn’t come to me automatically.

I will mention that I personally feel that Mariah Carey redeemed her GLITTER performance with her role in PRECIOUS. GLITTER is a very guilty pleasure of mine and I accept her as she is.

With Mariah Carey mentioned, I can say that there is a category I would create that I would call: MUSICIANS I WOULD ON THE FENCE ABOUT WITH THEIR ACTING CHOICES! So, let me bring you some last- minute selections I came up with…

JENNIFER LOPEZ: Great films like SELENA, U- TURN, OUT OF SIGHT, THE CELL and MONEY TRAIN will outweigh clunkers like GIGLI, JERSEY GIRL, MAID IN MANHATTAN and ANGEL EYES. The bad has been the late and the good is appearing to be more historic! Too bad…

JANET JACKSON: Great films would be POETIC JUSTICE and FOR COLORED GIRLS while some bad choices have included THE NUTTY PROFESSOR II and WHY DID I GET MARRIED? Can she act? Yes and she proved it early on in her career by doing television before making the transition to film. Does she need to make better choices? Definitely!

NEIL DIAMOND: Even though is only officially recognized for his role as Jess Robin in the 1980 remake of THE JAZZ SINGER, he also made an appearance as himself in the comedic SAVING SILVERMAN. Personally, I enjoyed THE JAZZ SINGER, but many Diamond fans didn’t and thought the film was an injustice to the original Al Jolson version. It was campy fun with a great soundtrack performed by Diamond.

A classic moment from THE JAZZ SINGER with Neil Diamond

We can keep squeezing the fruit for more juice but I will get is just the rinds! Is there anyone we left out that we need to recognize under this category? We are always open to your comments and suggestions. Please let us know what you think and we always look forward to bringing you great topics and discussions. Check in with us next week as we explore more unique and intriguing topics of conversation…as always, we will SEE YOU NEXT WEDNESDAY!

Have you visited the official CINEMA: COUNTERPOINT page on YOUTUBE? Check out classic and contemporary trailers, scenes and other great trips down memory lane! Just click the link and check out the "Favorites" on our site! Enjoy!

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JOHNNY CHAZZ' TURN: "THE KING'S ADAPTATION" THE FILMS OF STEPHEN KING

Often times you will hear people say after they see a film that ‘the book was better’. One primary form of adaptation that I would like to take a look at this week is the use of the novel as premise for the content of a feature film.

Think of it as a house of bricks in a sense. You take the novel and all the bricks, then break it apart only to put it all back together again on screen. However, as is often the case not only do all the bricks have to be replaced to properly resemble the contents and theme of the novel, but so many more bricks (details) must be added to fill-in all the gaps that the novel does not address. This is not to say that the novel does not contain details (as novels are highly descriptive), but in order for the film to properly bring the book ‘to life’ specific imagery and cinematic elements must be utilized to the fullest effect.

The question remains however, should there be a real distinction between the novel and the film as they are completely different works of art? Thus, some directors remain unconcerned with the original source material (the novel in this case) while others consider accuracy as the primary target of the film.

Therefore, this week Cinema: Counterpoint will be examining the films of Stephen King who has had so many of his novels adapted into successful films – and some that have basically flopped.

Perhaps part of the problem is that so many of his films are so unsettled in terms of genre. The main questions remains: Do his films (adaptations) make you want to read the book or vice-versa? Thus, let’s take a look at a few of the highlights of Stephen King on screen over the past 30+ years.

CARRIE (1976): De Palma’s first real “success” film may actually might be a bit of a disappointment in my mind. Having re-visited it now on the average of once every ten (10) years, as a horror flick it simply does not work from start to finish. (C-)

THE SHINING (1980): Terrific casting, amazing sets and a storyline and narrative that simply outstanding in the suspense and terror genre. The addition of Kubrick to the film was also a major plus. (A-)

CUJO (1982): Frightening? In some ways. Disturbing? Yes. Still, the film is much too long and the suspense is limited. (D)

THE DEAD ZONE (1983): Perfect casting of Christopher Walken for the role – who can ever tell if he is in or out of a comatose state. Cronenberg directs this film, which may be one of best adaptations of the novel onto the screen. (B+)

CHILDREN OF THE CORN (1984): This film belongs in somewhere in the back of the Dollar Tree in a basket with Monday Nitro Wrestling. (F)

FIRESTARTER (1984): Barrymore was a lousy actress then and even worse now. George C. Scott and Heather Locklear are the only bonuses when it comes to casting and only one of those is really nice to look at. The premise is fairly simple, but the score (Tangerine Dream) and the adaptation onto the big-screen were actually half-decent. (C+) 

CAT’S EYE (1985): Barrymore again unfortunately, but the overall casting is acceptable. Still, the three (3) stories really do not meet or connect with one another. The segment with James Woods is truly the best part of the film. (C-)

Pet Sematary

PET SEMATARY (1989): At this point, some of the adaptations are getting a bit, well “corny”. Ghosts and zombie cats dominated this film that is frankly, well – boring. Cannot recommend based on the story line as well as the poor adaption. D-  

  

MISERY (1990): What an impact this film and adaptation had on movie-going audiences at the turn of the decade. How fresh to see James Caan return for this and Kathy Bates is amazing in the role. Rob Reiner directs and what a plus that was in order to create the proper set design, mood, lighting and all the factors that create a film that was much like the novel – with tension and suspense. (B+)

NEEDFUL THINGS (1993): Nice to see Ed Harris makes an appearance in this one as well as the outstanding performance by Max Von Sydow. As a journey into the “supernatural” per se, the film was a bit of a disappointment. The adaptation is really not top-notch and the quality of the film really is limited to the performance of the cast – and nothing else. (C)

Enjoy the original 1993 trailer for NEEDFUL THINGS

 THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION (1994): Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman bless us with their presence in one of the best films of the decade. The adaptation is excellent and the combination of narrative as well as mood and suspense are perfectly balanced. As a period piece it also works on a high level with a formidable emotional impact on the audience. It is the ultimate testament to human spirit – and a film that many will remember for a long, long time to come. (A)

THINNER (1996): Poor cast, poor premise and a film that gets way too much play even on cable late at night. To add, the performances are at a B-movie level. Pass. (C-)

THE GREEN MILE (1999): Not a Tom Hanks fan and never really have been, but his role works wonderfully in this period piece. The hues of the film are also amazing almost serving as a predecessor to what we saw in Pan’s Labyrinth in certain scenes – using colors and light to weave the real and fantasy world’s together until they are indistinguishable. David Morse and Michael Jeter are outstanding in their roles and this is to take nothing away from the rest of the cast. It’s not ‘Shawshank’, but the adaptation is first-rate and the film almost gets better with time. (A-)

HEARTS IN ATLANTIS (2001): A solid period piece with vibrant, yet honest and poignant performances. Scott Hicks directs and although it may not fall into the ‘horror’ realm, there is a great deal of suspense in the undertones of the film. Simply put, ‘Atlantis’ is nostalgic and magical in some sense. Perhaps the book was better though as is often the case. The film was not popular with audiences and I am not sure exactly why. Was it too slow? This will always riddle me… (B+)

DREAMCATCHER (2003): Morgan Freeman proves here that he is not always a key to success. Too little is revealed too early in the film, and too much is revealed too late – thus our interest is never held. The cast is also questionable. It almost seemed like an episode of the X-files gone terrible wrong. Losing brain cells is also a natural result of re-visiting this film from time to time. Cannot recommend ~ (D+)

THE MIST (2007): The day following a bad storm, small town folks are under attack by monsters and creatures from who knows where. The film is basically unfocused, a bit dull and (no pun intended) – lost in the fog. There are some thrilling and suspenseful moments in the picture, but from start to finish it simply did not hold my interest. Still, the story and the book are good, so I would recommend visiting that channel for entertainment. (C+)

IT (2011): Interested in seeing how this film’s re-make will look at the movie house late this year. Let's hope the adaptation is no worse than what we saw in 'Pet Sematary' or 'Dreamcatcher'...

JER: This will come across more as an editorial since my partner- in- crime, JOHNNY CHAZZ, had been missing in action since his last known whereabouts was probably in some seedy karaoke bar in the wrong side of Sin City… drinking his umpteenth Mia- Tai and selecting to sing his next Steely Dan tune.

With that said, a minor voice conversation held on the telephone the other day with Mr. Chazz got me thinking about our proposed topic this week, which was going to focus on the screen adaptations of the works by the master of horror novelist, Mr. Stephen King! As you can tell from the comments above, Mr Chazz is alive and well and taking the A- Train to rehab central! LOL!

For me, the films of Stephen King peppered the 80’s in my most impressionable time of my hopeful projected film career. Figuratively speaking, most of the films made were of high quality with imaginative directors helming a ‘at- times’ controversial version based either heavily or loosely on a highly recognized novel.

(Informational assistance taken from stephenking.com) Born Stephen Edwin King in Portland, Maine in 1947, his schooling would bring him to the University of Maine and earn a B. A. in English which opened the possibilities of becoming a teacher. Unable to immediately find work to support his newly married life with his newlywed wife, Tabitha, King began selling short stories to any publication that would by them. As stories developed, so did his love for macabre and the eerie… especially in the written form. Things would make a drastic shift for King in 1973 when a novel written under the title Jerusalem’s Lot would forever be changed and recognized as Salem’s Lot. Shortly thereafter, an endless spring of stories would flow out of the twisted mind of the man who would later be known as “The Master of Horror.”

As the writer wrote, Hollywood read…and saw dollar signs! This would began a very healthy and lucrative career for both Mr. Stephen King and for Hollywood… the following are just a few highlights of the more memorable and iconic films and characters created by “The Master!”

CARRIE (1976): Director Brian DePalma would be the first person to dive into the world of King adaptations. CARRIE was only a best selling book, it would become a top grossing film in the box office. With the strong acting introduction of a then unknown Sissy Spacek, she would bring the very reclusive and highly destructive Carrie White to very horrifying life! A strong supporting cast of young newbies including Amy Irving, Nancy Allen and John Travolta also proved to be a hit with critics and fans alike. As with any adaptation, there were the novelist fans who claimed to not stick to the original storyline as was brought forth in their favorite book. This would a lesson needing to be quickly accepted by the hardcore writer’s fans and by Mr. King himself..

Enjoy the combination of Pino Donaggio's haunting soundtrack as it accompanies this great sequence from CARRIE

  

THE SHINING (1980): Unless you have been living under a rock, you may automatically imagine a deranged Jack Nicholson sticking his face through an axed door sarcastically and tauntingly mouthing the words, “Here’s Johnny!” to a frightened Shelly Duvall! Director Stanley Kubrick would take great liberties with the original novel’s interpretation of King’s haunting story of a family hired to care for a five- star hotel during its snowed- out winter months. The creation of Jack Torrance alone read chillingly on paper and brought to an all- time creep level high by Nicholson’s bipolar portrayal of a man psychotically pushed over the edge of sanity. Due to the restraint in budget and the under developed technology of special effects at the time, the story was adapted by Kubrick to focus on the madness that faced the Torrance family rather than the physical haunting that occurred throughout the novel. Don’t get me wrong…some highlights throughout the film are based off said haunting! How can you forget the twin sisters standing in the hallway or the lady in Room 237?

CUJO (1983)

1983 proved to be a triple- header for King enthusiasts! The releases of CUJO, CHRISTINE and THE DEAD ZONE proved that Hollywood is only just beginning to tap the resources available and provide entertainment that the fans were craving for! CUJO would star Dee Wallace Stone (Elliott’s mom in E.T.: THE EXTRA- TERRESTRIAL) as a mother struggling to survive within a Pinto as a rabid Saint Bernard terrorizes both her and her five year old son, Tad. Directed by Lewis Teague (CAT’S EYE) CUJO would similarly play on the emotions of the audience by the portrayal of a mother’s protection over her asthmatic child while fighting off the elements of heat, exhaustion, lack of food and water and a Saint Bernard big enough to band and ding the vulnerable vehicle used for shelter. Famed horror director John Carpenter (HALLOWEEN) would ‘change gears’ from his normal human- causing- carnage to a 1957 Plymouth Fury that has more under the hood than a cherry engine! Taunting and suspenseful, Carpenter has always had a great eye for cinematography and the capturing of dark images and low lighting to execute peril. Carpenter would also provide a pulse- driven synthesizer- heavy foreboding soundtrack!

Christopher Walken in THE DEAD ZONE

Finally, director David Cronenberg (THE FLY) would interpret King’s THE DEAD ZONE. Starring Christopher Walken as school teacher Johnny Smith, it would seem as if he has everything lined- up in his life with a rewarding career, a girlfriend and a bright future ahead of him. A freak car accident would have Johnny awakening into a different world after being in a coma for five years. His job, girlfriend and damaged use of his legs have crippled Johnny emotionally…however, something else has changed. A gift of foreseeing into the future of people he touches becomes a mental window into the unknown…but is it a gift or is it a curse? THE DEAD ZONE is yet another brilliantly executed film that is very true to its original novel roots. Helmed with a strong supporting cast (Tom Skerritt, Hebert Lom and Martin Sheen) this film would come highly recommended!

CHILDREN OF THE CORN and FIRESTARTER (starring an 8 year old Drew Barrymore) both films would fare well in the box office but were considered loosely based on its more entertaining and fruitful origins. Both films were released theatrically in 1984.

1985 would see the short story of CAT’S EYE and the ‘novella’ Cycle of the Werewolf comes to life as SILVER BULLET. CAT’S EYE was written with FIRESTARTER’s Dew Barrymore in mind as a marginally frightening “old wife’s tale” of felines’ abilities to take an infant’s breath away causing immediate death. SILVER BULLET starred the well- casted duo of Gary Busey and the late Corey Haim as a well- developed relationship between a reckless Uncle and his paralyzed nephew. Did I mention the sudden werewolf attacks in this sleepy little town?

Based on King’s short story entitled Trucks, it was probably considered inevitable for Stephen King to try his hand in directing one of his own stories… that one- time opportunity was MAXIMUM OVERDRIVE. Released in 1986, the movie’s storyline focused on the events that occurred after a comet passes very closely by the Earth’s atmosphere, causing machines to come to life for 3 days. A play on honkey- tonk rednecks and every other southern derogatory categorization befalls this poor and bloody clunker. King would never direct again.

Enjoy this 1986 classic trailer starring writer/ director Stephen King!

The novella known as The Body would be greatly directed by Rob Reiner (WHEN HARRY MET SALLY) and would change the name of the story and become better known as 1986’s STAND BY ME. Narrated by Richard Dreyfuss, the rich storyline would introduce us to four friends; Gordie (Wil Wheaton), Chris (River Phoenix), Teddy (Corey Feldman) and Vern (Jerry O’Connell). The friends hear of the death of a boy their own age whose body had not been recovered. Together, the boys go on a quest to find the missing body and learn something about themselves and the friendship amongst them.

The sci- fi adventure novel (written under the pen name of Richard Bachman) of THE RUNNING MAN would prove to be a great fit for action star Arnold Schwarzenegger! Directed by TV star Paul Michael Glaser (“Starskey and Hutch”), Schwarzenegger would play the ‘wrongfully accused’ police officer Ben Richards of a crime he didn’t commit. In the near future, television would play off of more gruesome and action- filled reality shows including one entitled “The Running Man.” Hosted by Damon Killian (“Family Feud” TV host Richard Dawson) the show would present an opportunity for convicts to “run” for their potential freedom and life while being chased down and hunted by “over the top” WWF- looking opponents!

1989 would draw an end to a very successful decade with another book- turned- film. Directed by famed 80’s music video director Mary Lambert, the dark and sinister PET SEMATARY would crawl its way out of the grave to great box office receipts. Weaving an urban legend tale of an old Indian burial ground, people would say that anything… or anyone, buried in its cursed soil would have them raised from the dead! The only catch is… they don’t really come back as their old selves again!

Moving into the 1990’s wouldn’t prove to be as memorable for Stephen King stories as the prior decade would. The likes of the short- storied GRAVEYARD SHIFT and made- for television mini- series “IT” would kick things off in 1990. Oh, there was one other little film that opened the same year… STAND BY ME’s director Ron Reiner would helm another King novel into film… as the very memorable and pulse- pounding thriller, MISERY.

MISERY would star James Caan and Kathy Bates (who won an Academy Award for this film). Caan played famed novelist Paul Sheldon, a writer of a series of romance novels better known as the “Misery” series, named after its heroine, Misery Chastain. Sheldon decides to follow tradition of renting an isolated cabin in a snowy terrain, free of distractions and pen the last of his “Misery” books before deciding to try his hand in another genre. He is caught in the white, blinding blanket of snow, causing his vehicle to overturn after hitting a bank. His rescuer would come in the form of a husky former nurse named Annie (Bates). Lucky that Annie happened to had witnessed the accident and save Sheldon from the accident and risk disappearing under the heavy falling snow and lucky for Sheldon that Annie is an avid fan of the novel series he had just completed. Bed ridden with multiple broken bones and abrasions, including broken legs, Sheldon is conformed to Annie’s babbling of incoherent conversations and rants! Things take a quick dive into the worst when Annie reads the manuscript to his new novel…in which he kills off Misery! In Annie’s shock, she demands a re- write to bring Misery back, to which Sheldon refuses…this is where the trouble starts. Without a nearby telephone or any sign of neighbors in this isolated farmhouse, Sheldon is left to his own devices when he begins to fear for his life as Annie’s tantrums become more and more violent and directed towards him! This film offers a great character study that allows two great actors to really do what they do best!

Actor Gary Senise and Jer circa 1994- 95

I will hop- skip a couple of titles to get to, what was considered for its time, a major television event in 1994. A four- part mini- series directed by Mick Garris and adapted as a teleplay by King himself… I am talking about THE STAND. After an accidental chemical spill lets loose a deadly virus, the nation’s population is reduced to a handful of survivors that must do what it takes to survive… while also dealing with having dreams of two figures: one is of an older woman with mysterious powers and another is of a scary man. THE STAND boasted a large cast that included my 'friend' Gary Sinise, Molly Ringwald, Ruby Dee, Rob Lowe, Ray Waltson and Stephen King!

Probably the more notable and highly respected works of King’s novels to films were held by the responsibility of one renowned director: Frank Darabont. His films: THE GREEN MILE, THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION and THE MIST.

1994 would debut the first of the King trilogy with THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, the film would be bestowed a total of seven Academy Awards. Set in the 1940’s, the story revolves around two prisoners who befriend each other and create a special bond over the years of imprisonment… just be careful about what posters you hang where in your cell. The film would be a stellar success for everyone involved as it was considered a box office hit and a highly respected piece of film making.

Released in 1999, THE GREEN MILE was a milestone collaboration of fine actors (Tom Hanks, Michael Clarke Duncan, David Morse, James Cromwell, Harry Dean Stanton and Sam Rockwell) and excellent screenplay adaptation done by Darabont himself and complimented with fine cinematography. The story takes place in a Death Row facility in the 1930’s in which one of the convicts is discovered to have healing powers, causing a major moral dilemma.

Finally rounding off the list would be 2007’s THE MIST, as in the previous two films, Darabont would adapt King’s novel into a screenplay personally. This time telling the tale of a rather freakish lightning storm that unleashes a very mysterious fog bank that envelops a sleepy town community. Is it panic or is there really something lingering within the mist?

Another notation that is highly recognized by fans of King's works is the fact that a large majority of his stories occur in the fictional town of Castle Rock, Maine! The town almost serves as a nucleus for the paranormal, the bizarre and the abnormal. King has enjoyed the use of the town's reputation so much, that director Rob Reiner co- founded and named his production company: CASTLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT after King's creation.

COMMENTS, INQUIRIES and RECOMMENDATIONS are always welcomed by you! Please let us know how you are enjoying our site and what improvements or topics we can touch upon! Tune in next week when it is JER's turn to bring forth another interesting topic for discussion...until then, we will SEE YOU NEXT WEDNESDAY!

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