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Iconic Movies At The Beach! Malibu’s Solar Eclipse Waves Are A “Full Moon Rising”! Wet And Wild Cinema!

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Welcome To Malibu!

It’s another gorgeous day in Malibu, as the waves crash against the California shoreline – and people are eagerly anticipating the solar eclipse…

The pacific ocean seemed to want to get into the celebration, for we saw some of the biggest waves in Malibu ever – loud and huge….

Because of the upcoming full moon, the waves are larger than usual, and the high tide created some amazing water action at the steps leading to the beach!

Here is a video I took of the waves having a good time as the high tide approached:

The waves have been amazingly strong here, and I could literally watch them for hours…but I decided to get a bit closer for some shots of the waves crashing into the bulkhead…leading to this shot that ended up all over me! Yes, at the end of this video, I found myself right in the path of the spray…

Water In The Movies!

My sister-in-law Lauren told me I needed to showcase great movie moments that took place on the beach, and here are a couple – beginning with this woman, who sees something in the water…

Yes, “Bruce” the shark terrorizes beachgoers in Steven Spielberg’s thriller “Jaws” – talk about a stampede!

Forty-two years later, this shark still shocks movie lovers, but for some reason, Spielberg never seemed that nervous about his villain:

If you want to read more great trivia about this classic film, click here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/23/jaws-42-years-ago-cinema-was-changed-forever-time-to-celebrate-bruce-the-great-white/

Sometimes, the only things you need to make a beach moment iconic is to just step out of the water:

Halle Berry did just that in 2002’s “Die Another Day” as NSA operative Jinx. As EW noted:

“In the grand tradition of Bond girls — most notably Ursula Andress as Honey Ryder in 1962’s “Dr. No” — Berry rocked a bikini to make a showstopping entrance on the beach.”

Yes, Andress made quite the entrance in the first 007 movie – did you know her nickname was Ursula “UNDRESS?”

See more about her “casual relationship with clothing” by reading my story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/03/28/ursula-andress-or-undress-007s-first-bond-girl-60s-sex-kitten-frolicked-with-nature/

Another iconic movie moment was the first time you got to see Daryl Hannah in her “natural state” in “Splash”:

This movie moment from 1984 helped make “Splash” a big splash at the box office.

But enough of women partially clothed – how about the same with Ralph Macchio?

Yes, “The Karate Kid” has a memorable beachside training scene, where Macchio works on his balance while developing his “crane technique”!

OK, that’s not fair…going back to 007, let’s all remember when Daniel Craig did his “Bond Girl moment” in “Casino Royale”:

My wife Alex told me that was the fair thing to do – I’m sure it had NOTHING to do with how 007 looks in a bathing suit…

Alex also reminded me of the last shot in “The Shawshank Redemption” – when two old friends reunite in Zihuatenajo…as well as scenes in “Forgetting Sarah Marshall”, when Mila Kunis dares Jason Segal to jump from a cliff into the Pacific Ocean…it doesn’t go well for him…

But forget all that – the greatest movie moment involving water is actually this amazing TV moment!


The Origin Of “Jumping The Shark!”

Yes, the TV series “Happy Days” inadvertently created a new catchphrase in season 5 when Henry Winkler – as “the Fonz” – and wearing a leather jacket – jumps over a shark on water skis!

A new catchphrase was created that signals the moment when a TV show or movie goes in such a ridiculously wrong direction that it “jumps the shark!”

But time to end on a serious note. This is one moment that has to be mentioned, for good reason.

That’s because the single most iconic beach moment in all time in cinema is “From Here To Eternity”!

This illicit moment, in which the adulterous lovers kiss like there’s no tomorrow, was originally written with them standing up; it was reportedly Lancaster’s idea to shoot it lying down, with water washing over them!

While this moment may have conjured up all sorts of thoughts of intimacy and isolation, making a movie is anything but that, as the behind-the-scenes shot of the moment shows:

Talk About Lack Of Privacy!

Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr has no time to themselves for this scene, which is considered the greatest beach scene of all time.

It was nicely parodied in a number of movies, my favorite being “Airplane!” Their romantic time on the beach left them just a bit more “kelp-covered!”

Even animated movies got into the act, as the scene was parodied in “Shrek!”

Let me know what iconic beach scenes I forgot – time to get wet and wild in the cinema!



A MASSIVE List Of “L” Movies! My “Movies A-Z” Hits The Cinema Motherlode!

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A List So Large It Could Fill A Theater THIS BIG!

Yes, my “Movie A-Z” countdown has hit another letter packed with classic films. It seems like every time I post I leave something great off due to the limitation I put upon myself originally, which is to focus on ten movies with a variety of genres and popularity – part of the fun in a list like this is to be able to tell you about films you may not have heard of!

There were so many “L” movies I had to leave THESE off among many others: Lenny, Living Out Loud, Little Big Man, Let It Be, Little Miss Sunshine, the entire Lone Wolf and Cub series, AND Lady Snowblood, just to name a few!

Oh my, NO “LADY SNOWBLOOD”!?!?!?! Well, these ten that I have chosen had better be great, right?

Well they are, so let’s talk about ten great films that begin with the letter “L”!

10 – “The Long Good Friday”

Bob Hoskins and Helen Mirren star in this terrific 80’s gangster film. A London mobster uses some very unorthodox techniques on his competitors:

However, the times are changing, and Hoskins has to learn to adapt or else. Check out the trailer:

Check out the trailer:

This is Hoskins’ greatest performance – and Helen Mirren is also terrific – here is more about this classic gangster film:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/08/08/bob-hoskins-retires-celebrate-this-great-long-good-friday-star/

Here’s a very obscure psychological horror film from the early 70’s:

9 – “Let’s Scare Jessica To Death”

Jessica had a breakdown. Now she is recovering. but her dreams are back, quickly becoming nightmares. Check out the trailer:

Thanks to Warner Archive, this is now on home video – it’s worth a look – here is more on the cast, along with some fun trivia about the movie:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/19/shocktober-day-19-scares-jessica-to-death-eerie-psychological-horror/

The “L” list includes many films that are on my top fifty of all time, including this “L.A> Noir” from the late 70’s – starring Art Carney!

8 – “The Late Show”

Carney may be best known for his comedic work on “The Jackie Gleason Show”, but he excels in this part – a workout private Detective hired by Lily Tomlin to find her cat – here is the trailer:

Lily Tomlin is also terrific in the movie, which was written and directed by Robert Benton – whose next film would be the Oscar-winning “Kramer Vs. Kramer”.

I cannot recommend this more highly – and it’s on DVD as well – see more trivia here:

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

Albert Brooks is one of America’s most under-appreciated Directors, and here’s one reason why:

7 – “Lost In America”

Brooks wrote, directed and stars in this comedy about 80’s America – here is the trailer:

From Julie Hagerty’s obsession with the number “22” at the craps table, to Brooks’ desire to get “lost in America” and “touch Indians”, this is a perfect look at life in 1980’s America.

Criterion just released a great Blu-Ray release – see details here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/26/albert-brooks-lost-in-america-criterion-collection-three-more-great-reasons-to-love-him-taxi-driver-for-one/

Some of our legendary Hollywood Actors were known for certain things – Walter Matthau as a comedy legend, for example – but did you know he also starred in a string of gritty 1970’s police thrillers?

6 – “The Laughing Policeman”

Yes, Matthau starred as a Detective trying to find out who shot up a San Francisco city bus late at night. Here is the trailer:

Bruce Dern excels as his partner – who is just as happy beating suspects up as helping crime victims out – you can read more about Walter Matthau, Action Hero, here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/02/07/bank-robbers-and-bus-massacres-charley-varrick-the-laughing-policeman-walter-matthau-action-star/

Speaking of cops and crime, time to head to “L.A” for one of the best film noir about the city ever made:

5 – “L.A. Confidential”

Director Curtis Hansen tells the story of a corrupt L.A. police department – and the young Detective out to solve a vicious murder – in the 90’s classic “L.A. Confidential”:

Guy Pearce, Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe and Oscar-winning Best Supporting Actress Kim Basinger are great in this crime thriller. Every time I watch this film I grow to love it more.

Another “L.A. Noir” was directed in 1973 by the legendary Robert Altman:

4 – “The Long Goodbye”

Elliott Gould stars as Private Detective Philip Marlowe – here is the trailer:

Altman shot part of the film from L.A.’s legendary “Hollywood Hightower” – see more inside trivia about this legendary movie location – and classic cult film by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/09/14/hollywoods-hightower-movie-past-vintage-los-angeles-climbs-these-legendary-stairs/

Robert Altman was a great Director, but far from the more prolific. In fact, that honor may belong to the Director of this classic “L” film:


3 – “Lorna The Exorcist”

Yes, Director Jess Franco made more than a hundred movies! Many starred his lifelong partner Lina Romay, who is spellbinding as the young woman who may be possessed:

Jess Franco loved to make movies, Lina Romay loves to get naked, so they were a “Euro-sleaze” match made in cinematic heaven! Read more about his moody, erotic gem here:


https://johnrieber.com/2013/02/17/countess-perverse-lorna-the-exorcist-jess-francos-naked-masterpieces/

I love all of these films on this list for one reason or another – but this next film is on my “top ten of all time” list:

2 – “The Last Of Sheila”

Legendary Broadway Showman Stephen Sondheim and “Psycho” Actor Tony Perkins loved games, so they created a murder mystery that was played by the biggest names in Hollywood….here is the trailer:

What an all-star cast: James Coburn, Raquel Welch, Richard Benjamin, Ryan Cannon and more star in this twisty, devilish fun mystery with a side helping of Hollywood shade!

Read more about this incredible movie here:

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

Finally, I am a huge fan of Director Steven Soderbergh, and this film is one of the best, another “L.A. Story”:

1 – “The Limey”

Terence Stamp stars as a British mobster who comes to L.A. to find his missing daughter – here is the trailer:

Stamp is mesmerizing in the role, and Peter Fonda stars as the last man to see the daughter alive – this is classic film noir, and another of my favorite films…read more about it here:


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

There you go, ten GREAT GREAT GREAT films that begin with the letter “L”…it’s been fun looking at every letter of the alphabet through a cinema filter, like my look at the letter “K”:

Sadly, Jerry Lewis just passed away – his performance in “The King Of Comedy” is so great – you can see that film and all of my “killer K” choices here:


https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/19/killer-movies-with-a-k-my-movies-a-z-has-kung-fu-killers-and-catholic-high-school-girls-in-trouble/

You can always click on “movies” in my list of categories on the main page to see all of my lists, but here is a link to “Movies A-F”, a compilation of those first posts:


https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/04/classic-movies-a-f-sixty-great-movies-with-one-thing-in-common-the-alphabet/

Let me know your favorite “L” film!


From “Godfathers” To Stephen Sondheim! My List Of “Movies G-L” Are Sixty Cinema Classics!

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As you can see, James Caan didn’t mind being shot up in “The Godfather”, one of the greatest films of all time – and one of ten great movies that began with “G”!

I’ve been counting down the greatest movies from “A-Z”, sharing ten movies from each letter of the alphabet – here is a recap and links to each letter if you want to catch up.

“The Godfather” is of course on the “G” list, and you can click here to see the other nine:


https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/05/g-is-for-gangsters-gotcha-and-a-b-c-too-my-movie-celebration-continues-with-classic-g-films/

The letter “H” gave me a chance to celebrate one of the greatest action films of all time – but a classic 70’s film with a wickedly sharp script by Paddy Chafesky!

Director John Woo made two the greatest action films of all time: “The Killer” and “Hard-Boiled”, both with Chow Yun-Fat – this image of the Actor holding one of his co-stars from “Hard-Boiled” kicks off ten great movies with an “H” – see the others here, including Paddy Chayefsky’s “The Hospital!”

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/08/hard-boiled-movies-with-an-h-my-a-z-classic-movie-list-continues-with-heartbreak-and-helldrivers/

The letter “I” was full of intrigue – and a very obscure Robert Altman film from the 70’s:

Susannah York starred in Director Robert Altman’s moody thriller “Images” – one of ten great films with an “I” – here are the rest:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/12/wild-movies-with-an-i-these-i-films-are-shocking-sexy-oscar-winners/

“J” is an easy letter for one reason alone – the greatest thriller starring a shark!

Steven Spielberg was having some fun with Bruce the shark on the set of “Jaws”, but the shoot was anything but easy – see more great trivia from “Jaws” and nine other films with a “J” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/14/hey-jackass-movies-with-a-j-have-jaws-for-sushi-john-wick-steve-jobs-show-me-the-j/

I love ribald comedy, and there is a film that begins with the letter “K” that is one of my favorites:

Yes, “Big Jim Slade!”

If you know who this is, then you know one of the funniest films ever made: “Kentucky Fried Movie” is hilarious – and one of ten great “K” movies – click here to see why!

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/19/killer-movies-with-a-k-my-movies-a-z-has-kung-fu-killers-and-catholic-high-school-girls-in-trouble/

Finally, the letter “L” is chock full of classic films, including one of my favorite whodunnits of all time!

An all-star cast delivers a wickedly funny murder mystery thriller from the minds of Composer Stephen Sondheim and Actor Tony Perkins!

“The Last of Shiela” heads up an amazing list of films beginning with “L” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/22/a-massive-list-of-l-movies-my-movies-a-z-hits-the-cinema-motherlode/

If you want to go back further, I also have a “catchup” list of movies from “A-F” as well:

Yes, Frances McDormand wants you to “halt right there” and look at my list of great movies from “A-F” by clicking here:


https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/04/classic-movies-a-f-sixty-great-movies-with-one-thing-in-common-the-alphabet/

Now that you are caught up, more great letters of the alphabet coming soon – next up, the letter “M” – here’s a sneak peek – stop pointing that knife!


RIP Director Tobe Hooper –“Texas Chainsaw Massacre”–“Poltergeist”

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RIP Tobe Hooper…

Another great Horror Film Director has passed away.

Tobe Hooper has died at the age of 74 – this film Director made two of the most popular films in the horror genre…


“They’re Here…”

Hooper directed the horror classic “Poltergeist”, the 1982 ghost story produced by Steven Spielberg. An unfortunate rumor has hung over this movie, suggesting Spielberg stepped in to direct some of it, a charge that has always been denied.

Hooper also directed one of the greatest horror films of all time – one that helped usher in a new wave of realism into the genre:

Hooper wrote “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” with Kim Henkel, based loosely on the horrific crimes of Ed Gein – it’s widely considered one of the greatest horror films of all time.

the-texas-chainsaw-massacre-movie-poster-1974-1020198670

Check out the iconic trailer:

40th anniversary texas chainsaw massacre

What A Classic Shocker!

Director Hooper offered up a new vision of horror in 1974, when his film was so raw that many people thought it was real!

The plot is simple: five teenagers in a car have a couple of strange encounters before ending up at an old family home…where the horror begins!

halloween-2016-the-texas-chainsaw-massacre


Say Hello To “Leatherface!”

Gunnar Hansen played “Leatherface”, one of the most shocking characters in movie history – the “raw” feel of the movie made it almost impossible to watch – especially when they are invited to the family “dinner”…

chainsaw-masacrew-family-meal-1974

According to the great IMDB website, Director Tobe Hooper claims to have gotten the idea for the film while standing in the hardware section of a crowded store. While thinking of a way to get out through the crowd, he spotted the chainsaws!

scaries-films-ever-texas-chainsaw-massacre

Gunnar “Leatherface” Hansen hit his head on doorways and other objects several times during the shoot because the Leatherface mask severely limited his peripheral vision and the three-inch heels he wore made his 6’4″ frame too high to clear all obstacles!

texas-chainsaw-massacre-scariest-films-of-all-time

Horrific – But No Blood!

The most shocking thing about “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” is that it isn’t very bloody! As IMDB reports:

“This is because Tobe Hooper intended to make the movie for a “PG” rating, by keeping violence moderate, language mild, and having most of the horror implied offscreen rather than shown in great detail onscreen. However, this plan had actually backfired, and made the film even more horrifying. Because despite cutting and repeated submissions, the Ratings Board insisted on an “X” rating!”

In 1979, Hooper directed the TV adaptation of Stephen King’s classic vampire novel “Salem’s Lot” – and it’s terrific as well…

This sad news comes after we lost another great Horror Director recently, George Romero…here is a look at his career:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/16/rip-george-romero-the-revelatory-horror-of-night-of-the-living-dead/

It’s a shock to lose two great pioneers in the genre so soon…

RIP Tobe Hooper…


Classic Movies With An “M”! The Mack! Machine Girls! Midnight Run! A Beatle Too!

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Let’s Go To The Movies!

My second home is a movie palace: a place to escape, to explore, to dream, and to get a raised heartbeat due to stuff like this:

Yes, “killer go go dancers” are always an important part of any movie – and in this edition of “Movies A-Z”, I have those naughty go-go dance killers for you, plus many more “M” movies to share – so let’s get going with a classic slice of blaxploitation!

10 – “The Mack”

The “blaxploitation” genre includes many great films like “Super Fly” and “Foxy Brown” – and one of the founders of the genre was Max Julien, who made a great film about “The Mack” – check out the trailer:

This was the first time I’d seen Richard Pryor in a movie, and he is great – you can see how he commands the screen, even in a supporting role.

If you are unfamiliar with the “blaxploitation” genre, here is a great place to start your film education:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/04/25/the-mack-sweet-sweetback-blacula-blaxploitation-lives/

If you know the question “why are you so unpopular with the Chicago police department?”, then you know one of the great comedy action films:

9 – “Midnight Run”

Robert DeNiro showed his comedic chops as a Bounty Hunter who has a VERY difficult client – here is the trailer:

While not a huge hit when released in 1988, “Midnight Run” has gotten a reputation as one of the funniest action films ever – and now there is a new remastered special edition on blu-ray – read all about it here:

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

Next up is the first film rated “V” for violence!

8 – “Mark Of The Devil”

There is a category of film in the 70’s known as “Euro-sleaze”, exploitation films from central and eastern Europe that pushed the envelope for sex and violence….and “Mark Of The Devil” may be one of the most shocking – check out the trailer:

This film was released widely in the US in 1970, and the “gimmick” was a free “vomit bag” for everyone who attended!

See more about this wacky movie stunt here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/04/classic-movie-gimmicks-mark-of-the-devil-vomit-bags-censored-movie-madness/

Another gritty exploitation classic was released in 1981 – the shocking revenge thriller from Director Abel Ferrera!

7 – “Ms. 45”

Zoe Lund starred as a young mute woman who is assaulted in New York – and she decides to fight back!

Here is the trailer:

Zoe Lund made her movie debut in this controversial thriller – a sort of female version of “Death Wish” – she is mesmerizing to watch in the film – which is raw and gritty – and her real life story was tragic…you can read more about her here:


https://johnrieber.com/2017/04/17/ms-45-a-stunning-movie-debut-for-zoe-lund-the-shocking-true-hollywood-heroin-death-of-a-great-young-actress/

Next up on the “M” list is one of the most imaginative, exhilarating movie musicals of all time – thanks to visionary Director Baz Luhrmann!

6 – “Moulin Rouge”

Nicole Kidman and Ewan MacGregor star as ill-fated lovers who meet at the legendary Moulin Rouge theater in Paris – here is the trailer:

“Moulin Rouge” is, without a doubt, one of the most creative films ever released.

The dance numbers are amazing – the camera never stops, and the cast has so much energy – also, Luhrmann used a unique blend of modern and classic music for the soundtrack, and the dance numbers – so get ready for a mashup of “Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend” and “Smells Like Teen Spirit!”

I just re-watched this recently with my wife and it holds up as fresh as when we first saw it.

Next up is a surreal dark comedy from England – starring legendary Actor Peter Sellers – and a real life Beatle!

5 – “The Magic Christian”

This is one of the darkest of black comedies from England in 1969 – with Sellers a wealthy eccentric who likes to use money to play with people…and Beatles drummer Ringo Starr as a homeless man who he adopts! First, check out the trailer:

This is a very dark comedy with many surreal touches, and Sellers and Ringo are great together.

The movie is star-studded, with John Cleese, Yul Brynner and Raquel Welch among the stars making cameo appearances, and Paul McCartney wrote the title track “Come And Get It!”

See that video – and more, by clicking on the story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/05/02/ringo-starr-the-fab-fours-magic-christian-madness-raquel-welch-dominatrix-great-solo-music/

How about this next film – endorsed by The President and Vice President Of The United States!

4 – “Mantis In Lace”

I LOVE that President Obama and Vice President Biden were photographed at a burger bar with the “Mantis In Lace” poster in plain sight! Talk about free advertising!

This is one wacky exploitation flick – which was originally known as “LILA”, and here is the original trailer for it:

This is one of those early exploitation films that promises a LOT more then it shows – but has energy and creativity that makes it a really fun “time capture” – one of many of that era – you can see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/06/06/psycho-go-go-dancers-delinquent-schoolgirls-and-candy-snatchers-more-70s-grindhouse/

From “grindhouse” to “the Oscars”, this list of “M” movies has them all!

3 – “Midnight Cowboy”

The Best Picture of 1969, “Midnight Cowboy” is the gritty drama about an unlikely friendship between wannabe male hustler Joe Buck, and streetwise hustler Ratso Rizzo…here is the trailer:

This is a brilliant, challenging film – with Dustin Hoffman’s classic line:

“I’m Walking’ Here!”

By the way, that iconic line was ad-libbed! It’s also the only X-rated film to win Best Picture – see more great trivia about his film here:


https://johnrieber.com/2013/05/07/x-rated-butter-cowboys-droogs-oscars-x-flirtation/

Time to head overseas for one of the wildest new genres in film – “J-sploitation!”

2 – “The Machine Girl”

“J-sploitation” is another genre of film that is worth exploring.

Japanese exploitation films usually involve a young woman who is abused, who then gets the ultimate revenge against her attackers in very bloody ways….check out the trailer:

These films are mostly over-the-top action spectacle with lots of blood, but in a cartoonish way – really wild films – see them all here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/14/mutant-girls-toilet-zombies-japans-wild-female-ninjas-bloody-j-sploitation-fun/

I will wrap up my “M” list with one of my favorite movies of all time, with an incredible performance by the legendary Peter O’ Toole:


1 – “My Favorite Year”

Richard Benjamin directed this affectionate tribute to the early days of live television – here is the trailer:

This hilarious look at life behind-the-scenes of a live weekly TV show is great fun – and also warm and surprisingly emotional as well – and Peter O’ Toole chews up the scenery as the over-the-hill action star who agrees to do the show to get the IRS off his back!

See more about this legendary “hell raiser” here:


https://johnrieber.com/2012/07/10/peter-otoole-retires-a-look-at-this-hellraiser/

There you go, ten great films with the letter “M” – now, if you’ve missed any of my previous letters, you can catch up:

Alan Alda’s just hanging around wait for you to check out my list of movies from “A-F” – which you can see here:


https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/04/classic-movies-a-f-sixty-great-movies-with-one-thing-in-common-the-alphabet/

Now, if you want to see what I shared for the letter G-L, you can go here, and remember: the horse’s head was real!

Yes, that trivia is just one of the reasons to check out my “G-L” list of sixty great movies here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/25/from-godfathers-to-stephen-sondheim-my-list-of-movies-g-l-are-sixty-cinema-classics/

Let me know who you love from “M” – like Jimmy Serano!


Movies With An “N”! My “Movies A-Z” Has Hitchcock! Altman! Julia Roberts Too!

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Time To Celebrate Iconic Movie Images!

If you love movies, you also love iconic movie moments – like this shot of Cary Grant being chased by a small airplane…or this shot of an Anchorman who’s “mad as hell and not going to take it anymore!”

Both of these images can be found in this edition of “Movies A – Z” as I share ten great movies starting with the letter “N” – let’s go!


10 – “No Country For Old Men”

In 2007, the Coen Brothers took him multiple Academy Awards for their dusty thriller that takes place along the Rio Grande river…when a hunter accidentally stumbles upon money left from a drug deal gone wrong…here is the trailer:

Javier Bardem won Best Supporting Actor, Joel and Ethan Coen won Best Adapted Screenplay and shared the Best Director Oscar – and the film took home the Academy Award as Best Picture Of The Year.

It’s a gritty, compelling look at evil, and Tommy Lee Jones is also terrific as the policeman who is old enough to have seen it all – and tired of what he’s seen. One of their many masterpieces.

You want to lighten the mood up a bit? Well, I’ve got the guy who can do just that:

9 – “Napoleon Dynamite”

Jon Heder created an iconic movie character the moment he struck this pose:

Napoleon Dynamite lives with his grandma and his 32-year-old brother in Idaho – the film documents his quirky life – and his attempt to help his friend Pedro win the Class President crown at school. Here is the trailer:

The movie is funny, offbeat and full of memorable lines like this:

Kid on Bus: What are you gonna do today, Napoleon?
Napoleon Dynamite: Whatever I feel like I wanna do. Gosh!

If your taste is for something more “EPIC” in tone, then you need to watch this Robert Altman masterpiece right now:

8 – “Nashville”

Here is the plot summary from IMDB:

“This movie tells the intersecting stories of various people connected to the music business in Nashville. Barbara Jean is the reigning queen of Nashville but is near collapse. Linnea and Delbert Reese have a shaky marriage and 2 deaf children. Opal is a British journalist touring the area. These and other stories come together in a dramatic climax.”

Check out the trailer:

“Nashville” was nominated for Best Picture and Director in 1975, as well as for Supporting Actresses Ronee Blakley and Lily Tomlin.

Actor Keith Carradine won the Oscar for Best Original Song for “I’m Easy” – here he is performing it in the film:

The Criterion Collection just released a special edition of this great film, so check it out!

Here’s another Best Picture nominee, this one from 1976:

7 – “Network”

One of the best and most incisive looks at the power of media – with one of the cinema’s most iconic lines:

“I’m Mad As Hell, And I’m Not Going To Take It Anymore!”

Peter Finch posthumously won the Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of a network news Anchorman who has a breakdown live on TV – check out the trailer:

William Holden and Faye Dunaway were both nominated as well, and Dunaway won for her portrayal as a “tough as nails” Network Executive who has no boundaries when creating hits…here is the iconic photo of her the following morning at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel:

A brilliant film that is so prescient – because TV News is now wildly out of control – take a look:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/05/31/political-chaos-2016-network-and-broadcast-news-nailed-it-this-town-confirms-the-shenanigans/

Another classic movie on the “N” list is from Director Alfred Hitchcock:

6 – “North By Northwest”

Cary Grant stars as a New York advertising executive who is mistaken for a government agent by a group of foreign spies – here is the trailer:

This film is filled with iconic images – Hitchcok was, of course, a master of suspense until he very end – here is a film he made in 1971:

You can read more about this modern, vicious thriller here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/06/09/frenzy-drowning-alfred-hitchcock-classic-movie-shocks/

OK, time to relax and have a laugh – and who better than Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts?

Original Cinema Quad Poster – Movie Film Posters

5 – “Notting Hill”

This is a charming romantic comedy set in London’s Notting Hill neighborhood, where a local bookstore owner happens to meet – and fall in love with – the most famous Actress in the world…here is the trailer:

Two of the world’s biggest stars in 1999 working together in a charming, funny and romantic movie – and for those who have seen it, my review came straight from the pages of “Horse & Hound!”

Here’s another warm romantic comedy – NOT!

4 – “Night Has A Thousand Desires”

Director Jess Franco directed his wife, Actress Lina Romay, in this 1984 surreal thriller about a woman who may or may not be killing people!

As always, Romay is mesmerizing onscreen – and as always, amazingly naked for much of the film – these two made dozens of movies together, and a new blu-ray release is filled with tons of extras – see them here:


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

Here’s another movie shocker, from a great Director who sadly just passed away:

3 – “Night Of The Living Dead”

This ultra-low budget film changed horror movies forever – here is the original trailer:

Director George Romero risked everything when he made “Night Of The Living Dead”, and the list of filmmakers who have referenced its influence is large…sadly, Romero just passed away – here is a homage to his life:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/16/rip-george-romero-the-revelatory-horror-of-night-of-the-living-dead/

Ron Howard went from acting to Directing such great films as “Apollo 13” and “A Beautiful Mind”, but this was his first major studio effort:

2 – “Night Shift”

Howard’s “Happy Days” co-star Henry Winkler plays a timid Morgue Supervisor whose life is turned upside down when a new co-worker arrives….here is the trailer to this 1982 comedy:

Of course, Keaton decides to turn the morgue into a brothel!

Chuck Lumley: As we sit here and idly chat, there are woman, female human beings, rolling around in strange beds with strange men, and we are making money from that.
Bill Blazejowski: Is this a great country, or what?

“Night Shift” is a funny movie that made Michael Keaton a star…always fun to watch.

Finally, I love “film noir”, and I love Gene Hackman, so naturally this 1975 film would end up on my list:

1 – “Night Moves”

Gene Hackman stars as a Private Investigator sent to find an aging movie star’s granddaughter. Here is the trailer:

Melanie Griffith had her first major film role, and “Night Moves” was directed by Arthur Penn, who also made “Bonnie & Clyde” among many other great films…I love Gene Hackman as an Actor, and you can read about his ten greatest roles here:

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

There you go, a list of ten great films with the letter “N”!

If you want to see what showed up on earlier lists, there’s this classic poster from the letter “A”:

that’s just one of the films I covered in the alphabet – here’s a look at all of the movies from “A-F”:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/04/classic-movies-a-f-sixty-great-movies-with-one-thing-in-common-the-alphabet/

As the alphabet progressed, I tried to include some offbeat films as well as foreign films like this one:

John Woo’s action classic showed up on the “H” list, and here are all of the films from “G” to “L”:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/25/from-godfathers-to-stephen-sondheim-my-list-of-movies-g-l-are-sixty-cinema-classics/

Finally, the great character Actor Dennis Farina was in my list of “M” films, for his great comedic turn as Mobster Jimmy Serrano in “Midnight Run”:

You can see all of my movies that begin with an “M” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/29/classic-movies-with-an-m-the-mack-machine-girls-midnight-run-a-beatle-too/

Let me know your favorite from the letter “N”!


Happy 77th Birthday Raquel Welch! Dinosaur Slayer! Burt Reynolds Feud! “Seinfeld” Catfight! A Million Reasons To Love This Iconic Sex Kitten!

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Happy birthday Raquel!

johnrieber

Happy 77th Birthday Raquel Welch!

Alison Martino reminded me of this iconic photo – Raquel Welch draped in the American flag – one of the most iconic pictures of all – from an Actress who has had an amazing career that should be appreciated more!

Today is Raquel’s 77th birthday – she is a national treasure for all the reasons I am about to share!

It all began in the 60’s – so let’s head back in time!

Raquel_Welch_sexygirlphotos.filminspector.com_1

Enter the world of sex symbols…a world of movie trailers that boldly proclaim:

“Introducing Raquel Welch, the amazing star discovery of this, or any year!”

What a way to make your film debut – wearing THIS!

Raquel Welch

Celebrating the 60’s Sex Kitten Raquel Welch!

Yep, let’s go back to an era when one of the world’s most beautiful women became the world’s biggest star – all based on a very revealing movie outfit!

View original post 668 more words


“O” My! Mind-Blowing Films Beginning With “O”! “Movies A-Z” With 007! “My Boy Blue!” Zombies! Jennifer Aniston!

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Watch Out For These “O” Movies!

This iconic image is from one of the most imaginative, and darkest movies ever – and of course, it begins with an “O”!

My “Movies A-Z” hits hard right off the top, but don’t worry, there’s plenty of room for 007, Charlton Heston, Jennifer Aniston and “my boy Blue!”

Remember, these aren’t in any order, just a list of my most enjoyable “O” movies.

One of the most intense revenge thrillers of all time gets us started:

10 – “Old Boy”

This 2003 South Korean thriller was directed by Park Chan-wook. It’s the twisted story of a drunken Businessman who wakes up in a locked hotel room – where he is kept for 15 years before being suddenly released! Why? Well, check out the trailer:

The signature sequence in the film is a four minute hallway fight scene – our protagonist armed only with a hammer – and the camera tracks the entire fight without a single edit!

The late film critic Roger Ebert said that “Oldboy” was:

“a powerful film not because of what it depicts, but because of the depths of the human heart which it strips bare”.

Read more about this brilliant film, and other Asian classics, by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/06/30/killer-assassins-hard-boiled-killers-death-by-hammer-classic-asian-thrillers/

Next up, one of three sci-fi films starring the legendary Charlton Heston!

9 – “The Omega Man”

Charlton Heston is “the last man alive” in this classic sci-fi film based on the novel “I Am Legend” by Richard Matheson. Here is the trailer:

Heston chose an african-american love interest in the 1971 film, quite daring for the time. It’s one of three great sci-fi-fi films he made in succession – see the other two here!


https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/23/cult-sci-fis-godfather-charlton-heston-omega-man-planet-of-the-apes-soylent-green-is-people/

Legendary Director Sergio Leone made many great films, but one was taken away of him, butchered by the studio, and of course it bombed upon release!

8 – “Once Upon A Time In America”

This 1984 masterpiece was taken away from the Director and drastically re-edited – here is the trailer:

An amazing blu-ray was finally released with the Director’s original cut of the film, which is much more hypnotic – for example, the longer cut begins with a scene in an opium den, as Leone was looking to create something much more hypnotic than just a gangster film…

Look for the blu-ray edition to see the complete Directors Cut!

Speaking of different cuts, try the “unrated” version of this hilarious comedy:


7 – “Old School”

One of the funniest comedies ever, thanks in part to “my boy Blue!”

There is so much to love about “Old School” , like the scene where Will Farrell shoots himself in the neck with a dart gun – check out the trailer:

This is one of the best films about college life – click here to see another one – that makes this a hilarious double bill:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/04/15/sex-togas-bluto-blue-schools-out-for-animal-house-and-old-school/

Director Steven Soderbergh is on a number of my alphabetical lists, for good reason – he has made so many great films – and huge smash hits as well:

6 – “Ocean’s 11”

Soderbergh lined up an amazing cast as he remade one of Frank Sinatra’s biggest hits – but gave hit his own “too cool for school” vibe – check out the trailer:

What a great new “Rat Pack!”

This movie showcased the best of Soderbergh’s filmmaking – an intricate plot and playful characters given a chance to have fun – for example, notice how Brad Pitt eats in so many of his scenes!

Time now to go “O” as in “007”!

5 – “Octopussy”

Roger Moore was on a roll at this time as James Bond 007 – and this is one of the more unique titles in the series – here is the trailer:

Most would consider this a “second tier” 007 film – enjoyable but not quite as good as Moore’s great “The Spy Who Loved Me”.

Roger Moore starred in some of the biggest hits in the 007 series – and he was a class act as well – see more about him here:


https://johnrieber.com/2017/05/23/rip-roger-moore-007s-most-charming-james-bond-was-a-true-class-act/

Next up is a terrific , ultra low budget musical that shocked the movie world when it won an Oscar….

4 – “Once”

In 2006, this modest film told the story of a street singer who meets a woman who can play piano, and they make great music tougher – here is the trailer:

The film’s song “Falling Slowly” stunned the Academy Award audience by winning best original song – see more about this terrific film here:


https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/19/best-modern-musicals-once-the-commitments-glen-hansards-musical-oscar/

From the sublime to the ridiculous!

3 – “Office Space”

In 1999, Jennifer Aniston was part of a great ensemble – not “Friends” but disgruntled office workers.

Here is the trailer:

Gary Cole was pitch perfect as the “boss from hell” – and Mike Judge’s satire became a cult sensation…

Another cult horror film from the 70’s is coming back again – but nothing will top the original:

2 – “The Omen”

In 1976, this movie shocked audiences as it told the story of a small boy who may be the spawn of Satan!

Here is the trailer:

Legendary Actor Gregory Peck gives gravitas to the horror story, and this movie is beautifully directed by Richard Donner for maximum scares – a real treat.

I end the “O” movies with my second favorite film of all time – a much-neglected masterpiece:

1 – “O Lucky Man!”

Actor Malcolm McDowell exploded onto the film scene with this performances in “If…” and Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange”:

He followed those up in 1973 with a story he conceived – the “Candide” tale of a young coffee salesman – check out the trailer:

This movie is brilliant for so many reasons: an incredible cast, amazingly inventive direction by Lindsay Anderson – who filmed most of the movie’s soundtrack live and shows it in the movie!

Click on my story to read so much more about this movie – and how it inspired a classic “Seinfeld” episode!


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

There you have it – ten great movies with an “O” – and you can click on my blog home page and see the previous films that have been highlighted from “A – N” as well!



The Killer Clowns Are Here! “It” Terrorizes America! “Pennywise” Is Back! Best “Clown” Movies!

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stephen-king-s-it-horror-movies-shocktober-2016-best-clown-movies

“I’m every nightmare you’ve ever had. I’m your worst dream come true. I’m everything you ever were afraid of.”

One of 2017’s most anticipated films is here – ready to scare the face paint off America!

Who Likes Clowns? NO One! How About Red Balloons?

We might all HATE clowns, but we are flocking to see the latest adaptation Stephen King’s “It” – the creepy previews have included the distinctive red balloon – and the clown hovering in the background – here is the trailer:

The new version of “It” is getting rave reviews, and let’s face it, we are WAY overdue for a good solid horror film…but let’s not forget where Pennywise got his start…

stephen-king-it

Stephen King’s Iconic Clown!

There have been many great Stephen King movie adaptations: everything from “Carrie” to “The Shining”, and a whole bunch in between…but, with creepy clowns in the news every day, we should give credit where credit is due – King gave us the creepiest of them all – and it wasn’t a film, it was a TV miniseries from 1990!

stephen-king-it-evil-clown

Pennywise showed up on TV in 1990 as a horror mini-series starring Tim Curry.

Here is the plot of this classic King horror story:

In 1960, a group of social outcasts who are bullied by a gang of greasers lead by Henry Bowers are also tormented by an evil demon who can shapeshift into a clown and feed on children’s fears and kill them. He is known as Pennywise…

STEPHEN KING'S IT, Tim Curry, 1990

STEPHEN KING’S IT, Tim Curry, 1990

The Iconic “Pennywise!”

After defeating the demonic clown as kids, it resurfaces 30 years later and they must finish it off as adults once again. Of COURSE they do!

Tim Curry IS Pennywise!

Tim Curry, best known for his role in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”, steals this movie as well…check out “It’s” original classic trailer…

it-movie-halloween-2016-best-movies


It: “Let go. Be afraid. You all taste so much better when you’re afraid.”

The original “It” has a great home video release with lots of special features.

On the DVD commentary track for example, the actors note that Tim Curry’s characterization of Pennywise was so creepy and realistic that everyone avoided him during the filming.

stephen-king-s-it-horror-movies-shocktober-2016-best-clown-movies

“Pennywise? No Thanks!”

Tim Curry was reluctant to take the role of Pennywise initially because he didn’t like the idea of being buried under so much makeup. When he played the character Darkness in “Legend”, it was a difficult and demanding role, and the hours in makeup was still fresh in his mind. To compromise, Director Tommy Lee Wallace minimized the amount of makeup on Curry, and his performance carried the day…

it-movie-cary-fukunaga-horror-film-true-detective-1234kyle5678

Everyone I ask goes right to Tim Curry’s performance in “It” as one of the most unsettling they have seen…a classic role for a great Actor.

Speaking of unsettled…


“Real” Clowns Are Here – And They Aren’t Happy!

There are many reports of clown sightings as “It” opens in movie theaters.

Last Halloween, “real” clowns were also spotted in strange place, and this phenomenon has continued – as new stories from across the country are reporting strange Clowns terrorizing people – is it a prank gone bad – or something worse – or just a savvy promotion for the new “It?”

clown_sightings_around_kern_county

Now, time for a different kind of “KILLER KLOWN”:

killer-klowns-halloween-movie

Killer Klowns from Outer Space!

What a camp classic! This 80’s comic horror film is a lot of fun. Check out the trailer!

Here is the plot: when a small town is invaded by aliens from outer space, no one takes them seriously. Why? The aliens all look like circus clowns with painted on smiles! Needless to say, something very “unfunny” is going down in town…

killer-klowns-from-outer-space

This is a feisty little thriller with tongue in bloody cheek!

How can you argue with dialogue like this:

Debbie Stone: “We were up at “the top of the world” and we saw this shooting star and we decided to go look for it. But instead of finding the shooting star we saw this… this circus tent. And that’s when we went inside, and that is when we saw those people in those… those pink, cotton candy cocoons. Dave, it was not a circus tent. It was something else.”
Dave Hanson: “What? What?”

killer-klowns-from-outer-space

Mike Tobacco: “It was a space ship. And there was these things, these killer clowns, and they shot popcorn at us! We barely got away!”
Curtis Mooney: “Killer clowns, from outer space. Holy shit!”

best-halloween-clown-moives-killer-klowns

And as an added bonus, it’s got Dean Wormer from “Animal House!”

Campy, fun and timeless, and these clowns still look like Klowns you don’t want to wake up to!

If all of this horror is bumming you out, maybe you need a “happy clown”!

Bill Murray was a “crooked clown” – and it’s one of his most under-rated films – see more movie clowns here:


https://johnrieber.com/2012/11/12/killer-klowns-shakes-the-clown-stephen-kings-it-movie-clowns-welcome/

Enjoy the new “It” – Pennywise demands it!

stephen-king-it-evil-clown


Wallow In HBO’s “The Deuce!” The Big Apple’s Sleazy 42nd Street! Five Sexploitation Classic From New York’s Grindhouse Paradise!

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times-square today New York

Welcome To Times Square!

Yes, it’s America’s most brightly lit playground of fun for the entire family! Times Square is well lit, filled with upbeat tourist attractions and offers all of the big chain restaurants you expect when on vacation – it’s a street filled with fun!

Well, it is NOW – but New York’s Times Square wasn’t always so wholesome…here’s what it looked like just a few decades ago…

Times Square 42nd street grindhouse

Now, thanks to HBO, James Franco and Maggie Gyllenhaal take you back to the gritty sidewalks of New York’s Times Square in the early 70’s in the new TV series, “The Deuce!”

This new series is getting a ton of great press.

Here is the trailer for “The Deuce!”

Maggie Gyllenhaal is getting a lot of attention for provocative photos from the set being released – apparently she leaves nothing to the imagination – but then again, this was a wild and crazy place – New York in the 70’s was as hot and dirty as hell!

Times Square Grindhouse 1983


This Wasn’t Your Mother’s Times Square!

Folks, these pictures are from Times Square in the 70’s and early 80’s – a seedy strip filled with movie houses that showed exploitation films 24 hours a day – that’s how the term “grindhouse” came to be: theaters that were grinding out cheap “dirty movies” all day and night…

MID-42nd_Street_1975

I have posted many stories about this era in the history of Times Square…it’s fascinating because these movie theaters were as dangerous inside as the action onscreen!

They also showed films that weren’t being seen in your neighborhood theater – a never-ending assortment of sex, violence and nudity – what do I mean? Well, let’s look at five great examples of “grindhouse” cinema of the 70’s!

asmellofhoneyaswallowofbrine_1966_


5 – “A Smell Of Honey A Swallow Of Brine”

One of the most exploitive posters you can imagine, this image showcases exactly what these films promised: dirty girls doing naughty things…

It didn’t matter that early films like this showed very little nudity – it was all part of the “come on” to lure young men into the theaters – these early films made wild claims in the posters that were never in the film itself:

“Violence! Liquor! Sex”

How funny is that? Here are more examples of this era of film at the end of the 60’s:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/08/06/sexy-honey-dirty-brine-grindhouse-classics-prurient-style/

By the early 70’s, the “nudie cuties” had devolved into “roughies”, films with dark dark content – crimes against women, roaming bands of hoodlums, you get the idea – and here is one of the grittiest:

4- “The Candy Snatchers”

By 1973, the films were getting increasingly provocative, as evidenced by this poster – one of several “roughies” of the time – these films helped provoke violence inside the theaters as well – see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/06/06/psycho-go-go-dancers-delinquent-schoolgirls-and-candy-snatchers-more-70s-grindhouse/

The late 60’s and early 70’s was an era when lines of good taste were crossed, “mondo” films promised to take you to places where there were “no rules” – including parts of the US – these films were shocking, but presented with an “educational” objective:


3- “Hillbilly Brides!” In Flaming Hillbilly Color!

Yes, in order to show shocking material like this, the movies were presented as documentaries designed to expose you to the shocking world around you – this “hickploitation” was a great example, and here are more:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/12/12/gator-bait-country-lovin-hillbilly-brides-sex-action-missing-teeth-hicksploitation-lives/

There was another category of film shown in Times Square: “Artsploitation” – these were European films films loaded with sex and nudity, but they were also artistic dramas, usually starring one legendary Actress:

2 – The “Queen Of Artsploitation” – Christina Lindberg!

She was known as the “Queen Of Arsploitation” – the iconic Christina Lindberg – click here to read all about her amazing career – and her influence on Quentin Tarantino:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/05/21/swedish-sex-kitten-christina-lindberg-the-original-queen-of-artsploitation/

By 1973, the films in New York’s Times Square were either exploitation, sexploitation, or all out hardcore sex films, all because of one movie that broke through all of the barriers:

1- “Deep Throat!”

This XXX-rated movie was banned, confiscated, or otherwise shut down across the country – until a court case involving New York opened the floodgates to XXX-rated movies!

Lina Lovelace became a star because of this movie, but her story was a sad one – captured in the movie starring Amanda Seyfried:

See the trailer to this bio-pic here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/03/16/linda-lovelace-amanda-seyfried-and-the-deep-throat-phenomenon/

Let me know if you plan to take a trip down, down, down to “the deuce!”


Movies A-Z! Ten Amazing “P” Movies! ALL From 1968-1975! Seven Years! Ten Cult Classics!

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Welcome To My Movie Countdown!

Kris Kristofferson opens his arms to all of you, fellow movie lovers, especially those who like classic cult movies!

Kris has ten great films to share, as I continue by “Movies A-Z” list of classic cult cinema!

Uh oh! Gene Hackman is so choked up about this list that I feel the need to explain: in doing my list of “Movies A-Z” – I found myself in a quandary with the letter “P” – I found ten classic cult from from a very specific period in Hollywood!

Cult “P” Movies From 1968-1975!

As you can see from this picture, Steve McQueen can’t wait to bust out and see my list as well – because he made this list…but sadly, I had to leave out more recent great films that begin with “P” – but there are ten great reasons why – these seven years (1968- 1975) gave us amazing movies!

So, in chronological order, here are ten great films that begin with the letter “P” – beginning in 1968 with a science fiction masterpiece!

10 – “Planet Of The Apes” – 1968

Charlton Heston and his fellow Astronauts crash land on another planet – a “planet of the apes!”

Here is the trailer:

This is one of the greatest science fiction films of all time – and of course, the single greatest “twist” ending of all time – written by “Twilight Zone’s” Rod Serling!

Charlton Heston had a “perfect storm” of sci-fi movies, including the movie that inspired Green Day to name their band! See that story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/23/cult-sci-fis-godfather-charlton-heston-omega-man-planet-of-the-apes-soylent-green-is-people/

That same year, Rock Superstar Mick Jagger shed his Rolling Stone image to star in a movie where he sat in a bathtub naked!

9 – “Performance” – 1968

This is a wild movie – check out the trailer:

“Performance” is notorious for including scenes of Jagger bathing with Keith Richards’ girlfriend – sparking a bitter feud – read that story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/07/26/mick-jaggers-naked-performance-keith-richards-girlfriend-feud-a-cult-classic-on-blu-ray-2/

We jump forward to 1971 now, the year that Clint Eastwood had three classic films, including his directorial debut:

8 – “Play Misty For Me” – 1971

Clint stars as a successful DJ who attracts a fan who becomes a crazed stalker – here is the trailer:

Jessica Walter is great as the deranged fan, and the bartender is played by legendary Director Don Siegel – who directed Clint TWICE that year – in “Dirty Harry” and “Play Misty For Me!”

See more about this trifecta of great cinema here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/12/clint-eastwoods-1971-triple-play-of-classic-films-dirty-harry-play-misty-for-me-the-beguiled/

Also in 1971, Al Pacino burst on the scene as a junkie hanging out in New York’s infamous “needle park”:

7 – “The Panic In Needle Park” – 1971

This raw movie about young drug addicts was filmed on location – here is the trailer:

Pacino would go on to star in “The Godfather” a year later – here is more trivia about his great cult movie:


https://johnrieber.com/2013/06/19/al-pacinos-a-junkie-a-scarecrow-classic-early-al-pacino-performances/

In 1972, “disaster” films were the rage, and none better that this great film with the classic tagline:

“HELL UPSIDE DOWN!”

6 – “The Poseidon Adventure” – 1972

What a great film – an ocean liner capsized on New Year’s eve, and the only way out is to climb UP to the bottom of the ship! Here is the trailer:

“The Poseidon Adventure” had an all-star cast – and won an Oscar for best song! See that video here:

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

That same year, Hackman starred in a gritty crime drama alongside Lee Marvin – a real slice of greenhouse cinema!

5 – “Prime Cut” – 1972

Hackman played a Kansas City Mobster who decides NOT to pay his Chicago mob bosses – who send Lee Marvin to collect what’s due!

Here is the trailer:

“Prime Cut” was Sissy Spacek’s movie debut, and she and Marvin get chased by a wheat harvester – this is a great action movie – see more here:

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

Another 70’s action hero had a smash hit in 1973 with the true story of one of the world’s greatest prison escapes!

4 – “Papillon” – 1973

Steve McQueen and Dustin Hoffman star in the film, based on the best-selling autobiography by the French convict Henri Charrière.

The film’s title is French for “Butterfly,” referring to Charrière’s tattoo and nickname. Here is the trailer:

This film is amazing, as it documents what these prisoners endured as they tried to escape…a great film and McQueen has never been better. He was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars at the time – click here to see more of his great movies!

https://johnrieber.com/2015/12/02/hollywoods-coolest-star-steve-mcqueen-chicagos-most-amazing-stunt/

Director Sam Peckinpah released one of his greatest movies in 1973 – with two big Hollywood stars as well:

3 – “Pat Garrett & Billy The Kid” – 1973

Kris Kristofferson and James Coburn starred in this great film about the last days of the wild west – check out the trailer:

At the time, Peckinpah had a reputation as a wild man, so the cast took a picture with him in a hospital bed – and sent it to the movie studio!

Here are more wild stories about this legendary Director:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/02/21/the-wild-bunch-billy-the-kid-sam-peckinpahs-soup-tossing/

Now, one of my five favorite films of all time – courtesy of Director Brian DePalma and Singer/Songwriter Paul Williams!

2- “Phantom Of The Paradise” – 1974

DePalma’s updated “Phantom Of The Opera” wasn’t a hit at the time, but is now considered a masterpiece – check out the trailer:

A new blu-ray has a ton of great extras, including an in-depth conversation between Paul Williams, who starred in the film and wrote all the music, and Director Gillermo del Toro…you can see more here:


https://johnrieber.com/2014/02/27/cult-classic-phantom-of-the-paradise-guillermo-del-toro-talks-up-paul-williams-great-new-special-edition/

Finally, Jack Nicholson starred in a great European film directed Michelangelo Antonioni.


1 – “The Passenger” – 1975

This hypnotic road movie gave us a chance to see a different side of Jack Nicholson – here is the trailer:

While it was never announced officially, rumors have been flying for a few years now that Jack retired from film – if that’s the case, now is the time to go back and see great films like this – here is a list of some of his best – oh, and my “Jack” moment at the Cannes Film Festival!


https://johnrieber.com/2017/04/22/happy-80th-birthday-jack-nicholson-his-greatest-roles-my-jack-moment/

There you go – ten great films, all released between 1968 and 1975 – there are so many great films beginning with “P”, but these are classics from a specific era in film.

I you missed by previous lists, here are my “Movies A-F”:


https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/04/classic-movies-a-f-sixty-great-movies-with-one-thing-in-common-the-alphabet/

For all the rest, go to my home page and click “movies” and you will find every letter so far! Let me know if your favorite “P” film is actually “Hell, Upside Down!”


“Movies A-Z” Meets “Quirky Q!” Yes! There Are Ten Great Films With A “Q”! Zsa Zsa Gabor As Well!

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An Obscure Letter! Obscure But Terrific “Q” Cinema!

Some letters are filled with great films – some less so – but my “Movies A-Z” continues with a quirky list of “Q” films that will make you laugh, cry, cover your eyes and so much more!

And yes, you get some vintage Zsa Zsa Gabor as well!

Let’s get started with one of my favorite comedies – a strangely under-appreicted film from one of our favorite people:


10 – “Quick Change”

In 1990, Bill Murray directed this great comedy about a trio of friends who pull off the perfect crime – they just can’t find the airport!

Any movie that begins with the line “Clowns Welcome!” works for me!

Here is the trailer:

Geena Davis and Randy Quaid are also great in the movie, which didn’t do well when it was released, but there is so much to love – see more great trivia here:


https://johnrieber.com/2013/08/27/quick-change-bill-murrays-forgotten-classics-tootsies-and-clowns-welcome/

Next up is a really fun “B” movie – Director Larry Cohen’s ode to classic horror monsters:

9 – “Q, The Winged Serpent”

In 1982, Cohen unleashed a dragon onto New York City – and had a great time doing so! Here is the trailer:

Larry Cohen has made some of the most enjoyable movies around – including the classic movie with one of the best tagline of all:

“There’s only one things wrong with the Davis baby…”

“It’s Alive!”

He also made some great blaxploitation as well – see more about this eclectic Director here:

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

Time to head to Paris – oh, not the Eiffel tower – this is a part of Paris you probably don’t wander around in:

8 – “Quiet Days In Clichy”

The notorious Henry Miller novel was turned into a cinema verite look at two penniless Writers who seek fun and sex in Paris 1970:

After 33 years, a completely uncut version of the film was finally released on home video…while not a “good” film, it’s a fascinating time capsule…

From “time capsule” to Oscar-winning historical bio-pic, thanks to Helen Mirren:

7 – “The Queen”

Mirren won Best Actress in 2006 for her portrayal of “The Queen”, and how she reacted to the death of Princess Diana…here is the trailer:

Director Stephen Frears got an amazing, nuanced performance from Mirren as a Queen who finds herself out of touch with a public who loved the former daughter-in-law she didn’t.

Mirren has had a great career so far, here are some highlights:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/27/happy-birthday-helen-mirren-from-her-age-of-consent-to-controversial-caligula/

Next up is another Queen, not quite as “royal”:

6 – “The Queen Of Versailles”

Jackie Siegel and her husband have a lavish lifestyle – until the crash of 2008 tears their life apart, and puts their “castle” at risk…check out the trailer:

This is a terrific 2012 documentary that follows the couple as they build a mansion inspired by Versailles…a story about America, money and status…

It’s eye-opening and surprisingly poignant as well…now, onto a movie based on a double album by The Who!

5 – “Quadrophenia”

Pete Townsend wrote an amazing concept album about a group of mods and rockers in London – and in 1979 it was made into a great movie!

Here is the trailer:

Pete Townsend’s songwriting is superb – this is a really great film that captures a unique time in England’s history of upheaval – oh, and 50 years on, The Who are still on tour!

Here is a look at their incredible career:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/10/16/the-whos-new-song-the-who-hits-50-tours-2015-who-i-am-pete-townshend-tells-us-who-he-is-warts-and-all/

From England, we “saddle up” and head to the wild wild west:

4 – “The Quick And The Dead”

Call her the “lady with no name” – Sharon Stone rides into town like Clint Eastwood at his best and takes on the most ruthless gunslingers in the west – check out the trailer:

Director Sam Raimi assembled a “once in a lifetime” cast: Sharon Stone, Leonardo DiCaprio, Gene Hackman and Russell Crowe!

This is a really good western – we need more of them!

What we don’t need is this – a sub-par 007: every James Bond craps out at least once, and it was no different for Daniel Craig:

3 – “Quantum Of Solace”

Daniel Craig was coming off a fantastic re-boot of the Bond series with “Casino Royale” – so I want to know this: why make an installment where he does nothing but seek revenge – over and over and over – and with the most dour expressions and humorless approach possible…here is the trailer, more akin to a Bourne film than a Bond:

Luckily, they quickly moved past this somber exercise and gave us the terrific “Skyfall” – still, is this the worst Bond film ever? Take a look at the contenders here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/09/24/his-name-is-bond-james-bond-the-best-007-ever-the-worst-film-fight-club-begins-now/

Director Sidney Lumet made such great movies as “Dog Day Afternoon” and “The Verdict”, but here is an obscure film that is terrific as well:

2 – “Q & A”

A young New York DA goes after a corrupt police detective in this 1990 drama – here is the trailer:

While not one of his best, Lumet always got terrific performances out of his cast…in that regard, I’m not sure our last “Q” movie NEEDED a great performance, because it had the one, the only:

Zsa Zsa Gabor!

1 – “Queen Of Outer Space”

What better way to wrap this list than with a clamp classic! Zsa Zsa Gabor stars as, who else, the “Queen Of Outer Space!”

Here is the trailer:

Well now you know, in the future – that’s right, 1985 – we are landing on other planets, including one run by women – and only women!

I love this movie so much – I mean, it was Zsa Zsa!

If you want to see more “Movies A-Z”, just click on “film” at the top of the site and you can see all of them!


Films With An “R”! Killer Lions “Roar!” Cinema’s Greatest Cult Musical And Boxing “Rocky” Too!!

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“R” Movies That “Roar!”

Yes, that is Actress Tippi Hedren giving a real African Lion a drink of water – in a very unique way…wait until you see why!

It’s all part of my list of “Movies A – Z”, this time with those that begin with an “R” – and of course we have to get started with Rock ‘n’ Roll!


10 – “Rock ‘n’ Roll High School”

In 1979, students fight back against the establishment – in this case their uptight school administrators – with the help of The Ramones!

Here is the trailer:

Here is some great trivia thanks to IMDB:

“The Ramones were paid a total of $25,000 for appearing in the film, and had to play shows in southern California to help pay their hotel bills. During the 21-day shoot, Dee Dee Ramone got arrested for fighting with a roadie, overdosed in jail, and wound up in Cedars Sinai Hospital with a $3,000 medical bill!”

This is a really fun film – click here to see more examples of great rock’n’roll rebellion in the halls of education!

https://johnrieber.com/2013/02/09/schools-out-rock-n-roll-high-nuke-em-high-and-alice-cooper/

Now I want to share one of the most amazing stories about the making of a film I have ever heard – I showed you Tippi Hedren and the Lion already, but look at this:

9 – “Roar”

Look at that poster. That’s Melanie Griffith with real blood pouring down her face – because her parents decided to make a film using real wild animals – who lived with them!

Watch the trailer of this amazingly misguided film:

I mean, can you believe this? “Roar” is a real film, and it has been re-released so you can experience the madness behind the movie – click here for my whole story:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/30/the-shocking-madness-of-roar-melanie-griffith-mauled-by-lions-movie-the-most-dangerous-film-ever-made/

Time to get back to reality – or at least reality by way of the Coen Brothers, who showed us just how funny – and wildly out-of-control Nicolas Cage can be onscreen!


8 – “Raising Arizona”

Twenty years ago, Joel and Ethan Coen told the hilarious story of a young woman who wants a baby – any baby – and the goodwill husband she sends out to get here one….

Here is the trailer for “Raising Arizona”:

The film is shot like a Roadrunner cartoon, with outlandish action sequences and an over-the-top performance by the legendary wild man Nicolas Cage:

I love this movie – a non-stop live action cartoon….the Coens went on to make classic dramas like “Fargo” and the Best Picture winner “No Country For Old Men”…and speaking of Oscar…

7 – “Rocky”

It beat out classic films like “Network”, “Taxi Driver” and “All The President’s Men” for Best Picture of 1976, but that’s OK, because “Rocky” is a classic as well!

Remember the trailer:

John G. Avildsen won the Best Director Oscar as well – and both are deserved, as this movie has grit, honesty and emotion in equal measure – bravo to Sylvester Stallone as well!

My next “R” movie may not be an Oscar winner, but it’s one of my favorite comedies with two terrifically funny performances!

6 – “Romy & Michelle’s High School Reunion”

Mira Sorvino and Lisa Kudrow are hilarious as Roma & Michelle, who decide to make up success stories for themselves as they head to their high school reunion.

Here is the trailer:

This film is funny and sweet in equal measure, one of the best “reunion” films – speaking of that, try this great “high school reunion” double bill:


https://johnrieber.com/2012/08/03/hilarious-high-school-reunions-romy-michelle-john-cusack-too-gross-points-indeed/

I’m not a huge fan of animated films, but when one is a classic, it deserves recognition!

5 – “Ratatouille”

Give Pixar a lot of credit telling the story of a Parisian Rat who wants to be a Chef…and bravo to them for hiring legendary Chef Thomas Keller to oversee all of the recipes in the film – they are all accurate!

Chef Keller’s Ratatouille recipe is amazing – I’ve made it several times and love it – you can see it for yourself here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/06/29/ratatouille-chef-thomas-kellers-recipe-for-animated-food-magic/

If you want some great music to listen to while cooking, my next film has you covered – with The Clash!

4 – “Rude Boy”

I love this film. It’s a fictional story of a “roadie” for The Clash as they tour the UK at the end of the 70’s – and they use real live shows to film at – so you see the band really in action! Here is the trailer:

The movie captures the moment when punk rock was on the verge of exploding – click here to see more about this terrific film:

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

Next up is another film that uses music to good effect – by making one of the main characters a huge KISS fan!


3 – “Role Models”

This is a really funny 2008 film starring Paul Rudd and Sean William Scott as two guys who avoid jail by becoming “Role Models” for young boys…here is the trailer:

For those who have seen it, know that all of the most offensive lines spoken to the kids were said while the actual child Actors were out of the room!

Here is some more great movie trivia: what film caused Frank Sinatra to serve divorce papers to his wife Mia Farrow?


2 – “Rosemary’s Baby”

That’s right, this classic horror film went over schedule – so Sinatra demanded that wife Mia Farrow quit the film – and when Frank tells someone to walk off a set, he expects them to walk off a set! But Mia Farrow didn’t, so he divorced her!

The film was worth it – check out the trailer:

This is a brilliant psychological horror film, with a mesmerizing performance by Mia Farrow as the young married woman who may be giving birth to Satan’s baby!

Read more behind-the-scenes trivia about this masterpiece here:

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

I want to end with one of my all-time favorite movies – a huge flop when it was released in 1975, but now considered a modern classic – and one of the greatest “audience participation” films of all time!


1 – “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”

What needs to be said? A notorious flop upon release, the film gained traction as a “midnight movie”, and soon, fans were mobbing theaters dressed as their favorite characters!

Here is the trailer:

There have been a number of great blu-ray releases of the movie, with lots of extra audience material – terrific music, great campy storyline – just one of my all-time favorites…oh, and what about that ad:

Rocky Horror Picture Show Poster

Those red lips! One of the most iconic images ever put on a movie poster – here are some more:


https://johnrieber.com/2012/08/16/red-lips-alien-eggs-all-white-juries-and-deep-throat-too-iconic-movie-posters/

That wraps up the letter “R” – you can go to my home page to look up all of the other letters of the alphabet – so much great cinema to share!


Movies A-Z Stops On “S”! Hilarious Drinking! Evil Darth Vader! Brad Pitt TWICE!

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Toast To Some GREAT Movies With An “S”!

Cheers! My “Movies A-Z” list has come to the letter “S”, which as usual, is so full of great films that I left off a ton of stuff – but here are ten films that capture everything I love about cinema.

Remember, these are not in any order, just a list of stuff I love – beginning with one of my favorite films of all time:

10 – “Sideways”

Director Alexander Payne has made so many great films, from “Election” to “About Schmidt”, but this story of two college roommates heading to wine country is his best film.

Here is the trailer:

Paul Giamatti is terrific, and Thomas Hayden Church was nominated for an Academy Award – just a terrific movie that celebrate friendship – and wine!

You can see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/02/18/its-national-wine-day-2017-sideways-monty-python-a-celebration-of-vino-hall-oates-too/

Time now for my first Brad Pitt film – as he gives one of his greatest – and most “unintelligible” performances ever!

9 – “Snatch”

In 2000, Director Guy Ritchie delivered one of the most entertaining crime films ever – with a terrific cast that included Jason Statham, Benicio Del Toro and Dennis Farina. But it was Pitt, playing a “fighting Gypsy” who stole the show.

Here is the trailer:

Brad Pitt steals every scene he is in as the thug who is literally unintelligible – in fact, here is a scene so you can hear for yourself:

“Snatch” is one of the most entertaining action films ever – one of the many British movies I love so much – you can read more about it here:


https://johnrieber.com/2012/06/08/shallow-graves-disappearing-creeds-and-of-course-snatch/

Next one, one of only 3 movies in motion picture history to win “the big 5”: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress and Best Screenplay!

8 – “The Silence Of The Lambs”

The 1991 Oscar winner is as terrifying – and relevant – today as when it was released. Here is the trailer:

No Merchandising. Editorial Use Only
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Everett Collection / Rex Features ( 411879fv )
‘THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS’ – Anthony Hopkins – 1991
VARIOUS

Anthony Hopkins gave one of cinema’s greatest performances as Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant Doctor who also happens to enjoy eating people.

Another Best Actor Oscar winner admits that he fired HIMSELF from a movie!

7 – “Straight Time”

In 1978, Dustin Hoffman planned to direct himself in a gritty crime thriller, but after the first day he fired himself so he could just focus on acting!

Check out the trailer to “Straight Time”:

The late great Harry Dean Stanton also stars in this great, under-seen crime drama. Hoffman is an ex-con who has no intention of going straight. Warner Archive has this now, so you can buy a copy – it also includes a very young Kathy Bates and Gary Busey in a great role as well!

Our third Oscar winning Actor in a row – as Jack Lemmon gave what some felt was the performance of his career:

6 – “Save The Tiger”

In 1973, Jack Lemmon took home the Oscar for this drama about a failing businessman who will do whatever it takes to save his business:

The late John G. Avildsen directed the movie, and he also directed “Rocky” and “The Karate Kid” – see more of his great work here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/19/rip-rocky-director-john-g-avildsen-brilliant-movies-like-save-the-tiger-and-the-karate-kid-troma-too/

I try to include offbeat, cult films on every list – so let’s head back to the 60’s, which exploitation films were offering audiences a more shocking time at the movies!

5 – “Scum Of The Earth!”

“Sights and sounds intended only for adult eyes and ears!” Hilarious!

Exploitation movies were notorious for provocative movie trailers and posters, usually promising much more than they could deliver – but this one does it with delight!

Check out the trailer:

The great home video company Something Weird Video has saved many of these films from obscurity – here is a look at some of the best:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/08/06/sexy-honey-dirty-brine-grindhouse-classics-prurient-style/

My second Brad Pitt movie has one of the most shocking and unsettling endings in movie history:

4 – “Se7en”

Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman are Detectives trying to find a serial killer, who is using the seven deadly sins to carry out his murders. Here is the trailer:

Kevin Spacey is phenomenal as the psychopath, and:

THAT ENDING. THAT ENDING.

Never fails to shock. Director David Fincher gave us one of the modern masterpieces in cinema.

There are movies that come out, fade away, and are quickly forgotten. Then there is this movie:

3 – “Star Wars: A New Hope”

One of cinema’s greatest franchises started as a low budget effort from George Lucas. As the original trailer states:

“The story of a boy, a girl, a universe!”

Here is the original trailer, including that line:

The series is stronger than ever, and Disneyland will soon have its own “Star Wars” area ready to go – here is a sneak peek:

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

Back to Oscar winning Actors: in 1971, Gene Hackman won the Best Actor award for “The French Connection”, but two years later he gave his most powerful performance ever:

2 – “Scarecrow”

This cult 1973 film also starred Best Actor winner Al Pacino – here is the trailer:

This is a character-driven drama that is pure 70’s – if you haven’t seen it, it’s worth the effort to find, because they both give incredible performances.

You can read more about the movie here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/06/19/al-pacinos-a-junkie-a-scarecrow-classic-early-al-pacino-performances/

Finally, another all-time favorite, with one of the most inspiring and uplifting endings of all!

1 – “The Shawshank Redemption”

Yes, it’s an adaptation of a Stephen King short story – and simply one of the greatest movie experiences of all time.

Here is the trailer:

Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins are perfect in the film, Director Frank Darabont tells the story beautifully, and yes: Zihuatanejo:

You can see more about this film here:

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

There you go, ten great movies with an “S” – let me know your favorite!


RIP To The “Raging Bull” Jake LaMotta! His “Psycho Cat” Movie!

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RIP To The “Raging Bull” Jake LaMotta!

One of boxing’s most unique fighters of all time has passed away. Jake LaMotta’s incredible and vicious life was documented by Martin Scorsese in his 1980 masterpiece “Raging Bull.”

There are many places to read more about his life – but the movie tells you everything you need to know: LaMotta was a wild man in the ring, and he had an equally raucous personal life as well!

LaMotta’s wild life was captured forever by the brilliant “Raging Bull” – but did you know that LaMotta was a movie star himself?

In THIS??????

CONFESSIONS-OF-A-PSYCHO-CAT sexploitation

“I DO IT FOR KICKS – AND I PLAN TO GET SOME!”

Now how can you not LOVE a movie that has a goal like that! Welcome to Jake LaMotta’s world of the “Psycho Cat!”

CONFESSIONS-OF-A-PSYCHO-CAT_


“Confessions Of A Psycho Cat!”

If someone ever asked you, “hey, how wacky and offbeat WERE those early sexploitation movies anyway?” – well, here is your answer – take a look at this trailer:

Confessions+of+a+Psycho+Cat

What a classic piece of exploitation! Here’s the plot: A deranged, wealthy woman offers $100,000 to three men if they can stay alive for 24 hours in Manhattan, and then hunts them down. Here are the three losers as they wait in a room filled with dead, stuffed animals…

obscure horror films

The “Raging Bull” Himself!

Boxer Jake LaMotta – yes, the “Raging Bull” himself – plays one of the three men who accept the bet – and he does a pretty good job in the movie!

Jake LaMotta movie role

LaMotta plays a washed-up wrestler, who accepts the Psycho Cat’s challenge, shouting at her:


“You don’t have a chance. I get in close, I’ll break you in half!”

Jake LaMotta

Each of the three men wait for a notification that their “hunt” has begun, and then the “Psycho Cat” proceeds to stalk them through the city of New York, which allows for a lot of interesting b-roll from that era…as one of them tries to hide out in Central Park…

Confessions+of+a+Psycho+Cat

Two Movies For The Price Of One!

One of the unique aspects of “Confessions Of A Psycho Cat” is the “two movies in one” aspect of the film – it is a straightforward thriller, as each of the three men is hunted down by the crazed psycho cat…

wildest sexploitation movies

But the film also has lengthy orgy scenes, all from a “party” that one of our victims shows up at – but for the most part, the nude scenes have nothing to do with the rest of the film…it was clearly a way to force nudity and sexual situations into the movie…and the film goes back to the party over and over again to show people making out and disrobing…

excessive nudity in film

Another way this “two movies in one” shows itself again is in a bizarre sequence involving Jake LaMotta, as he sits in his apartment waiting for the “psycho cat” to arrive…

Jake LaMotta Psycho Cat

After making a phone call, he begins to argue with someone – it turns out to be this woman, who is shown supposedly sitting on a bed in the same room…

sexploitation

But here’s the thing: LaMotta and the woman are NEVER shown in the same shot – and after sitting like this on the bed for a moment, she takes her top off and delivers this classic sexploitation monologue:

“What you bring me up here for anyway? All you’re doing is reading that silly little paper. I came up here to have some fun. What’s the matter? Don’t you like me? (Takes off bra and examines her breasts) I never had any complaints before. Can’t you tell I’m a girl? I think I look pretty good. I think you’re putting me down. I’m sexy and that’s what I came up here for…sex!”

60's sexploitation classic

And then she makes out with the mirror! It’s a truly bizarre sequence, and after french kissing the mirror for a minute – topless the entire time – she storms out of the room, never seen in the same frame as LaMotta, so clearly this nude scene was filmed afterwards to add more nudity and sexual situations to the film!

“What Secrets Are Harbored Within The Sinister Highways Of The Mind?”

As Something Weird describes it: “With twisted violence, macabre humor, and lots of gratuitous skin (it was apparently shot as a straight horror film with the nude scenes added a year or two later), CONFESSIONS OF A PSYCHO CAT is a delirious, out-of-its-mind instant cult classic!”

And they are right in every way!

wildest movie scenes


A Mind-Blowing Spanish Matador Battle!

You need more proof that this is a “sexploitation classic?” Well, here is one last moment to savor: the ultimate battle between “Psycho Cat” and “Raging Bull!”

Jake LaMotta exploitation movie

Yes, “Psycho Cat” dresses like a toreador to come after “Raging Bull” La Motta in a bizarre action sequence that encapsulates everything that makes “Psycho Cat” exploitation at its best!”

CONFESSIONS-OF-A-PSYCHO-CAT_

Wikipedia has a great page all about LaMotta’s boxing career, which you can see here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jake_LaMotta

RIP to the legendary “Raging Bull”!



Movies With A “T”! Comic Rockers! Crazy Cabbies! Vincent Price & Troma Too!

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Do I Have Your Attention?

Good, because it’s time for another letter, and another great collection of films! My “Movies A-Z” continues with the letter “T”, which has one of the funniest comedies of all time, the great Vincent Price, AND my third favorite film of all!

As always, these are not in any order, just ten great movies to share, but in this case:

“These Go To Eleven!”


10 – “This Is Spinal Tap”

Rob Reiner directed one of the funniest “mockumentaries” of all time, the story of Spinal Tap, “one of England’s loudest bands!”

Christopher Guest, Michael McKean and Harry Shearer are hilarious as Spinal Tap – and you can see from the first ads for the movie that they knew they had a classic.

Here is the original trailer!

“These Go To Eleven!”

Speakers that go to eleven – “one louder” – and album titles that are as funny as they are offensive:

Legend has it that Oasis singer Liam Gallagher thought this was all real – see more great trivia about the film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/02/05/this-is-spinal-tap-greatest-cult-film-worlds-worst-album-covers-terrific-tap-trivia/

Next up is one of my favorite Troma films – a remake of one of Shakespeare’s greatest, written by James Gunn – it’s “no holds Bard!”

9 – “Tromeo & Juliet”

I love Troma for so many reasons, but if you want to see offensive artistry at its best, then this punk version of “Romeo & Juliet” is for you!

The movie is well made, very clever and inventive – after all, it was written by Gunn! It’s just one of my “Tromatic” favorites – you can see them all here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/02/11/tromas-top-ten-the-tromatic-classics-unveiled/

In the 70’s, Comic Legend Walter Matthau made a series of great action thrillers, and this may be my favorite:

8 – “The Taking Of Pelham One Two Three”

Robert Shaw and Hector Elizondo are part of a gang of crooks who hold a New York subway train hostage – here is the great original movie trailer:

Matthau is the Subway Cop who has to negotiate with the crooks – this is vastly superior to the recent remake, because Matthau brings a world-weariness to the role – and the script is razor sharp.

See more about this terrific 70’s film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/02/16/classic-70s-action-crime-thriller-double-feature/

I love world cinema, especially because some of the most innovative movies are being made – like this action/romance/western from Thailand:

7 – “Tears Of The Black Tiger”

This 2000 film from Thailand is part parody/part homage to the melodramatic films of Douglas sir in the 50’s – and was screened at the Cannes Film Festival – here is the trailer:

This is a beautiful – and violent – movie, incredibly imaginative and worth a look!

Speaking of violent, how about a darkly black comedy/horror gem from the world’s greatest horror Actor – Vincent Price?

6 – “Theater Of Blood”

The legendary Actor has a blast playing a failed Actor who take bloody revenge on his critics! Here is the trailer:

Not only Does Price has a blast, but that’s Diana Rigg next to him! She has said that this is her favorite film of all – read more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/06/an-afro-tastic-vincent-price-kills-his-critics-in-theater-of-blood-diana-riggs-favorite-performance/

Time now for one of the great movie comedies of all time – thanks to Cameron Diaz:

5 – “There’s Something About Mary”

In 1994, “Mary” wowed audiences around the world for some of the funniest – and most raucous scenes ever put on screen – here is the trailer:

Ben Stiller and Matt Dillon are great in this film, and The Farrelly Brothers have never been better – a classic movie that is hilariously funny every time I watch it!

The next movie on my “T”T list has a very important question to ask:


“Which Is The Virgin? Which Is The Vampire?”

4 – “Twins Of Evil”

How can you possibly know – when they are twins!

This 1971 Hammer Studios horror classic stars Peter Cushing – and two Playboy Playmate Twins! Here is the trailer:

Hammer Studios wanted to be more contemporary, so this film has more nudity and blood, all part of an erotic trilogy that you need to check out:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/10/03/naked-vampires-dirty-dracula-cult-erotic-halloween-horror/

Next up is a horror film that bombed on release but is now considered a classic:


3 – “The Thing”

In 1982, Director John Carpenter’s remake bombed – considered too gory for mass audiences – here is the trailer:

I love this film’s tagline:

“Man Is The Warmest Place To Hide.”

Kurt Russell is terrific, and the film has amazing set pieces – click here to see more:

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

Matt Damon is next on the list – playing a very “talented” psychopath:

2 – “The Talented Mr. Ripley”

This 1999 psychological thriller was directed by Anthony Minghella. Matt Damon is terrific as Tom Ripley, who befriends Jude Law and Gwyneth Paltrow in Italy – while harboring hidden secrets – here is the trailer:

This is a great thriller, with topnotch supporting performances by Cate Blanchett and Phillip Seymour Hoffman – I can watch this film over and over again…

Speaking of that – here is one of the greatest films ever made – one that I have seen dozens of times:

1 – “Taxi Driver”

Director Martin Scorsese and Screenwriter Paul Schrader made a masterpiece in 1976 – the story of a lonely Taxi Driver named Travis Bickle.

Iconic dialogue, incredible performances and a shocking script make this a masterpiece.

Here is the original trailer for the film, basically introducing Scorsese and DeNiro to mainstream audiences!

Taxi Driver (1976)
Directed by Martin Scorsese
Shown from left on the set: Jodie Foster, Robert De Niro, director Martin Scorsese

Jodie Foster was oscar-nominated along with DeNiro and Scorsese, and the film was nominated for Best Picture – a searing look at a city coming apart during a political campaign. Albert Brooks and Cybil Sheppard also star…

“Travis Bickle” just turned 40 years old, and there was an incredible reunion screening in New York:

There is so much more to share about this film – see it 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/

There you have it – ten great movies that begin with the letter “T”! Let me know your favorites!


Movies With A “U”! Unknown Barbra Streisand! Mad Magazine’s Disowned Movie Debut! Oscar-Winning Gangsters And Kurt Russell Too!

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Get Our Of Your Sandbox! Movies With A “U” Are Here!

That’s right, Barbra Streisand’s got to get up and at ’em, because my list of “Movies A-Z” hits a “u”nique letter – and a wild group of films!

Here you go: an eclectic group of films that begin with a “U” – including a long-forgotten Streisand film, a disavowed Alfred E. Newman movie, and of course, Kurt Russell!

As always, these are not in a countdown order, just ten movies to enjoy! Or in the case of the first one, DISOWN!

10 – “Up The Academy!”

Did you know that the legendary Mad Magazine made a movie in 1980? And do you know they HATED IT?

Check out the trailer:

UP THE ACADEMY, 1980, ©Warner Brothers

Yes, Alfred E. Newman got into film, and the result was, as they say, “mixed!” This beloved magazine character may have bit off more than he could chew in this teen sex comedy…

UP THE ACADEMY, Ron Leibman, Hutch Parker, Ralph Macchio, Harry Teinowitz, Wendell Brown, 1980. ©Warner Brothers

According to wikipedia,

“The film was neither a commercial nor critical success when it was originally released, and was disowned by both the staff of Mad magazine and actor Ron Leibman (who, despite his sizable role, had his name completely removed from the credits and promotional material). Besides paying Warner Bros. $30,000 to remove all references to Mad from the film when it was released on home video, Mad’s publisher William Gaines issued personal handwritten apologies to every person that wrote the magazine to complain!”

Oops! As you can see, the magazine published a really scathing piece on their own film!

Well, another “adaptation from other source material” was much better received – even though the filmmakers took a non-fiction book and made up most of the story!

9 – “Under the Tuscan Sun”

This 2003 romantic comedy was based on the non-fiction bestseller by Travel Writer Frances Mayes. Here is the trailer:

The film is noticeably different than the original memoir. In the book, the real Frances Mayes buys a house with her fiancé in Tuscany – while in the movie, Diane Lane plays a woman abandoned by her husband who buys the Tuscany house on a whim in order to remake her life….it must have been OK with Mayes – since she co-wrote the film script!

Next up, an interesting cast in a classic “blaxploitation” movie!

8 – “Uptown Saturday Night”

This 1974 blaxploitation comedy was directed by Sidney Poitier, who also starred in the film along with Bill Cosby and Harry Belafonte.

The setup is simple: Steve Jackson and Wardell Franklin get robbed of their wallets containing a winning lottery ticket when they visit Madame Zenobia’s illegal nightclub – so they enlist help to get them back.

Here is the trailer:

As you can see from the trailer, Poitier plays the “uptight” friend, and you get a heavily-bearded Bill Cosby as well. According to IMDB, the roles of Steve and Wardell were written for Redd Foxx and Richard Pryor – but the studio felt they were not big box-office draws! Pryor ended up with a cameo.

If you are unfamiliar with the “blaxploitation” genre, click her to see the best from this great era of film:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/04/11/dolemite-hit-man-shaft-pam-grier-iconic-blaxploitation-stars-classic-cult-films/

Another major box office star of that era was in the midst of doing a trilogy of gritty westerns:

7 – “Ulzana’s Raid”

Burt Lancaster stars in this 1972 western as Indian War Chief Ulzana, who leads a small war party off the reservation bent on murder and terror, and the inexperienced young lieutenant who is assigned to track him down.

Here is the trailer:

Lancaster was a huge star at the time, and he also made these two other westerns at that time – check out “Lawman” and “Valdez Is Coming” as well here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/05/15/valdez-is-coming-lawman-gun-blazing-burt-lancaster-western-revenge-double-bill/

Next up is a huge hit from 1980, with a cowboy theme – and with John Travolta dancing once again to the tagline:

“Hard Hat Days And Honkey Tonk Nights!”


6 – “Urban Cowboy”

In this modern western, young hick Cowboy John Travolta learns how to dance and find love in the big city…

How can you resist that hat or this trailer?

This film was a huge box office hit, and after “Saturday Night Fever” and “Grease”, confirmed that Travolta was a big big movie star…

And here is some trivia: Sissy Spacek and Michelle Pfeiffer were also considered for the co-star role that Debra Winger played.

5 – “Uncle Buck”

John Hughes directed this movie about what happens when you let John Candy babysit your kids!

Here is the trailer:

The scene where Macauley Culkin interrogates Candy through the mail slot gave John Hughes the idea for “Home Alone”!

John Candy made some great movies…

Next up is Clint Eastwood’s modern take on a classic western…

4 – “Unforgiven”

Clint Eastwood revisited the wild west with the revisionist western “Unforgiven”, which he starred in alongside Morgan Freeman and Gene Hackman. Here is the trailer:

The film took home the 1992 Academy Award for Best Picture, Clint Eastwood won the Best Director award as well, and Gene Hackman won the supporting Actor Oscar – it’s a modern classic.

With so many big hit movies like “The Way We Were” and “Hello, Dolly!” – did you know that Barbra Streisand also starred in this movie?

3 – “Up The Sandbox”

Here’s a Barbara Streisand film from 1972 I bet you never heard of! She stars as a wife who is bored with her day-to-day existence – so she creates a fantasy world for herself.

Here is the trailer:

Reportedly, the Actress loved the film and knew it was a departure for her fans. Here’s what Streisand said when the film was released:

“This story interests me more than anything else I’ve ever done. It’s a departure from the romances, slapstick comedies, and musicals I have worked on up till now”.

Next on our list is a great action film from one of my favorite Directors:

2 – “The Untouchables”

In 1987, Director Brian DePalma had a big hit with the story of Agent Elliott Ness and his dogged pursuit of Al Capone on the streets of Chicago – here is the trailer:

Sean Connery won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar, and Robert DeNiro gained a lot of weight to play Capone – a terrific action movie…here are some of my other favorite DePalma films:

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

We end my list of “U” films with a raucous comedy from 1980 that wasn’t a big hit when released, but has grown in statue over the years!

1 – “Used Cars”

Kurt Russell heads up a great cast – all about the slimy world of used car sales…here is the trailer:

Legendary character Actor Jack Warden plays two roles in the film, and the movie is great, “R”-rated fun!

Here is more trivia about the film:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/01/03/used-cars-escape-from-new-york-classic-80s-kurt-russell-snake-plissken/

So there you have it, ten ways to enjoy a film with a bit of “U” in it!


“American Made!” The Latest Tom Cruise Film Struggling At The Box Office!

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“American Made” Is Latest Tom Cruise Box Office Disappointment…

I am a Tom Cruise fan. He’s made a lot of great films, and is always willing to put it all out there – see “Magnolia” and “Tropic Thunder” as two examples, but his recent films are going the wrong direction at the box office.

“American Made” Opens Soft…

Tom Cruise’s latest film opened in the US yesterday. Based on weekend trends, “American Made” is on track to be Cruise’s worst opener in decades. The film is looking to hit $15-million in its opening weekend, and may not even open at #1, losing out to last week’s “Kinsgman” sequel and the fourth weekend of “It.”

Is it his fault? The film was over 80% on Rotten Tomatoes, which is a aggregator of reviews – so the quality of the movie isn’t the issue. The issue is this: the movie business has changed, and there are no “movie stars” any more.

More than ever, movies are sold as “events”, with superheroes leading the charge. Films that depend on a “movie star” to sell them are struggling…

Deadline.com has this great box office analysis this morning about Tom Cruise’s recent films:

“It’s his lowest opening in close to five years, since Jack Reacher‘s $15M. Though it’s a great movie, American Made is coming in lower than last autumn’s critical displeasure Jack Reacher 2 which opened to more than its first chapter ($22.9M to $15.2M) and fizzled out with a 2.6x multiple ($58.7M). That’s likely the same leg factor here. Uni is hoping American Made legs out like Girl on the Train, but that’s a completely different movie altogether with a higher ($24.5M) opening, and a bestselling piece of chick lit that drove women to the theater. At the end, Girl earned a 3.1x multiple or $75.4M domestic. American Made nee Mena is original IP based on Gary Spinelli’s spec script which Uni shelled out $1M for three years ago. Outside of his Mission: Impossible films, Cruise tends to average roughly a $22M domestic B.O. start over the last 10 years, and American Made is shockingly under that despite the fact that it’s such a fantastic rebound for him quality wise since last June’s disaster The Mummy.”

A few years back, I looked at his sci-fi thriller “Oblivion” – noticeable in that it failed to gross $100-million at the US box office – the beginning of his downward box office trend.

You can see more of that movie’s box office performance here:


https://johnrieber.com/2014/06/08/edge-of-oblivion-tom-cruises-superstar-swan-dive/

Since then, Cruise has starred in a number of movies such as “Jack Reacher”, which as noted by Deadline, barely grossed $50-million in the US:

This summer, Cruise starred in the huge box office bomb “The Mummy”, which failed to resuscitate a worn-out horror franchise:

Cruise wasn’t alone. You can read about all of this summer’s box office bombs here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/12/bombs-away-the-mummy-unwraps-another-2017-summer-movie-disaster-tom-cruse-fires-box-office-blanks/

Cruise hasn’t made a romantic comedy in years – he has chosen to act in thrillers and action movies – and his “Mission:Impossible” franchise is still going strong.

But movie audiences have rejected all of our traditional action stars recently:

Matt Damon’s action epic “The Great Wall” fizzled upon release, and some of the latest films from Keanu Reeves have gone straight to video:

I posted a story about this terrific kung fu film, directed by Reeves – and how the future of film is on demand in your home more than ever – check it out here:


https://johnrieber.com/2013/10/07/james-franco-keanu-reeves-ondemand-the-new-future-of-film/

“American Made” got great reviews, and I hope the box office turns around!


Campy “Dolls!” Vampires! Vixens! Elvis Too! Ten Great “V” Movies!

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Rock It, Elvis! Rock It!

As you can see, Elvis and his pelvis are VERY excited about the ten films I am about to share with you! What could go wrong?

Well, Patty Duke needs her “dolls”, because this list has some of the greatest cult films of all time!

My countdown of “Movies A-Z” is now on the letter “V”, which is full of amazing performances, campy cult films, and Elvis Presley as well!

Let’s get started with one of the greatest “camp” films of all time, a cult classic based on a provocative best seller!

Original Cinema Quad Poster – Movie Film Posters

10 – “Valley Of The Dolls”

What a way to start! This 1967 camp classic was based on the best-selling novel the year before by Jacqueline Susann…the story of young women making their way through a “far out” Hollywood!

Here is the trailer:

Patty Duke chews the scenery Neely O’ Hara, who succumbs to the temptations of Hollywood. This is the film that gave us the character of “Ted Casablanca”, a name used years later by the E! Entertainment Columnist.

Of course, a sequel of inevitable, but it wasn’t the sequel anyone saw coming!

That’s right, Softcore Director Russ Meyer teamed up on a sequel with Roger Ebert – YES, ROGER EBERT!

Click here to see how it ended!

https://johnrieber.com/2013/10/08/roger-ebert-teams-up-with-russ-meyer-russ-and-roger-go-beyond/

Exploitation cinema may have nudity and adult situations, but that doesn’t mean they are classic films!

9 – “The Vampire Lovers”

Hammer Studios decided to take a more “adult” approach to horror films int eh early 70’s, and this great cult film is the result!

Here is the trailer:

This is a great, atmospheric horror film, part of a great “Hammer Horror” trilogy – see more here:


https://johnrieber.com/2012/10/13/bloody-vampires-lesbian-lovers-naked-halloween-horror-classic-erotic-hammer-time/

Since we are talking Vampires, here is one more great erotic horror film from that era:

8 – “Vampyros Lesbos”

This 1971 film told the story of a Vampire temptress who favored the blood of another woman! Soledad Miranda became a star because of her performance – see the trailer here:

Miranda’s fame was short-lived, however, due to a tragic car accident. She the story of her biggest film – and her sad end – here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/05/19/legendary-sex-kitten-soledad-miranda-ecstasy-vampyros-lesbos-new-cult-films-releases/

Time to take a break a let “the King” entertain us!

7 – “Viva Las Vegas!”

How can this go wrong? Elvis! Ann-Margret! THAT SONG! Let’s check out the trailer!

Elvis made movies with thin plots, but he more than made up for it when he had a blast like this! And Ann-Margret may have been one of the 60’s most popular sex kittens, but she was amazingly talented as well!

This movie is a lot of fun, but if you want to know more about the incredible Ann Margret, click only story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/23/hollywoods-legendary-sex-kitten-ann-margret-rock-operas-baked-beans-elvis/

Now, one of Paul Newman’s greatest performances:

6 – “The Verdict”

The great Director Sidney Lumet made this film, about an alcoholic Attorney who gets the case of a lifetime. Here is the trailer:

The film was nominated as Best Picture of 1982, and Lumet and Newman were both nominated as well. This is a great legal thriller, so check it out!

Now, time for a movie that was NEVER destined to be oscar-worthy, but boy is it entertaining!

5 – “Vixen!”

Russ Meyer made a name for himself with such classic films as “Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!” In 1968, he pushed the boundaries of cinema with “Vixen!”

Here is the trailer:

Russ Meyer

Meyer loved buxom women, but all of his films starred empowered women who kicked ass – here is a look at all of his movies:


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

My wife Alex mentioned to me that I had to include her favorite “movie with a V”:


4 – “Vision Quest!”

Matthew Modine stars in this terrific 1985 coming of age story set in Spokane, Washington.

Matthew Modine and Frank Jasper wrestle in Vision Quest.

Matthew Modine stars as a high school wrestler with girls on his mind. Here is the trailer:

Linda Fiorentino stars as the girl who captures his imagination. It’s a really good movie, with terrific performances as well.

Speaking of classic performances:

3 – “Vertigo”

One of Alfred Hitchcock’s greatest films, and an example of what a great Actor James Stewart was as well. Here is the trailer for this masterpiece:

The film was shot in San Francisco, and the city’s iconic Cost tower is seen many times…here is a look at this iconic tower:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/09/walking-up-coit-tower-alfred-hitchcock-loved-san-franciscos-iconic-400-step-tower/

In the early 70’s, many filmmakers took on the establishment with low-budget films that tackled the Vietnam war, racism and police brutality…this film tackled them all:

2 – “Vanishing Point”

If you haven’t seen this counter-culture film, you are missing out on a wild, wild ride…here is the trailer:

I posted a story about this film, and the “cameo” role to top them all: “naked girl on motorcycle!”

See more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/08/24/legendary-naked-motorcycle-starlet-hollywood-sex-symbol-gilda-texter-fascinating-nude-70s-movie-icon/

Finally, my list of “V” movies ends with visionary Director Takashi Miike, best known for this cerebral horror film “Audition” – but has made some of the most provocative films ever!

1 – “Visitor Q”

Almost impossible to describe, Miike’s film take viewers on a surreal ride.

Here is the wild wild wild trailer:

Miike has made a number of raw, edgy films like “Ichi The Killer”, but also mainstream films like “Thirteen Assassins” as well – here are some of his best:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/07/japans-cinematic-wild-man-the-visionary-movies-of-takashi-miike-ichi-the-killer-audition/

So take some “Dolls” and dig into these films!


Christina Lindberg! Wedding Singers! Willy Wonka! Ten Amazing Films With A “W”!

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Smile! Withnail Has Something Special For You!

Richard E. Grant can’t stop smiling, since this list of films will make everyone deliriously happy!

For this edition of “Movies A-Z”, I wanted to make sure I offered a mix of the popular and the obscure.

When it comes to the letter “W”, there are SO many great movies that I didn’t have room for “When Harry Met Sally”, “What About Bob”, “Whiplash” or “War Of The Roses”…but I have ten great choices across a number of genres, so let’s get going!

10 – “Withnail & I”

The funniest British comedy ever, this 1987 comedy is the story of two struggling Actors in London at the end of the 60’s…here is the trailer:

The late, great actor Richard Griffiths is terrific as “Uncle Monty”, who has a thing for Withnail. Director Bruce Robinson based the story on his own life – see more great trivia about his hilarious film – and Richard E. Grant’s great autobiography here:

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

From the profane to the surreal, one of the greatest family films of all time:

9 – “Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory”

Forget the remake. Gene Wilder IS Willy Wonka, and this movie is one of the most inventive and surreal musical comedies of all time. Here is the trailer:

Gene Wilder brought the perfect blend of comedy and chaos to the role. He was a brilliant Actor – here is a look at some of his best work:


https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/29/rip-gene-wilder-iconic-willy-wonka-richard-pryor-partnership-mel-brooks-frankenstein/

In 1973, one of the strangest horror films was released with one of the most shocking endings ever:

8 – “The Wicker Man”

It starts out so ordinary: a British Police Detective heads to a remote island to search for a missing girl…but that’s the last ordinary thing about the film. Here is the trailer:

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

Horror legend Christopher Lee stars as the cult leader who can’t let Detective Edward Woodward uncover the mystery of the island, and Britt Eckland does a nude dance that will never be forgotten! You can see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/06/23/burning-man-inspiration-the-wicker-man-naked-cult-horror/

The ending of “The Wicker Man” is one of cinema’s best. At the same time in movies, “old lady horror” was also a trend, and here is one of the campiest examples:

7 – “What’s The Matter With Helen?”

Debbie Reynolds and Shelley Winters had a blast making this campy horror film – check out the trailer:

In the early 70’s, several of these films were released, pairing up two Hollywood legends in a horror situation….see them here:


https://johnrieber.com/2017/03/28/bloody-grannies-epic-hollywood-feud-camp-old-lady-horror-classics/

For fans of “The Deuce” on HBO, you will know that 42nd Street in New York was full of movie theaters showing films like this:

6 – “Wide Open”

The “Queen Of Artsploitation” was Sweden’s Christina Lindberg, who starred in a number of provocative european art films that were hugely successful in the US – partly because of the “relaxation” of obscenity laws in the early 70’s.

Lindberg inspired a character in Quentin Tarantino’s “Kill Bill” movies, and she continues to have legions of fans today. See all of her movies here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/05/21/swedish-sex-kitten-christina-lindberg-the-original-queen-of-artsploitation/

Also in the 70’s was one of my favorite sci-fi films:

5 – “Westworld”

This isn’t the HBO series, this is the original thriller starring Yul Brynner, Richard Benjamin and James Brolin. Here is the trailer:

The tagline for this movie was classic:

“Westworld. Where nothing can possibly go W-O-R-N-G!”

Robots who begin to disobey and turn on humans….sound like the world today? This is a great film, and now an HBO series – read more about that here:


https://johnrieber.com/2013/08/30/j-j-abrams-goes-to-westworld-new-sci-fi-franchise-classic-cult-film/

Burt Reynolds was one of the biggest stars in the 70’s, and this next film is a good reason why:

4 – “White Lightning”

Reynolds had a string of big hits in the 70’s, like “The Longest Yard”, “Gator”, and this film – here is the trailer:

Reynolds made great “hicksploitation” action films, with lots of redneck cops, fast cars and sexy women. The genre worked well for awhile – here are some of the others:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/02/22/suck-down-some-white-lightning-hicksploitation-burt-reynolds-gator-good-ol-boy-action-classics/

Next up is a fascinating documentary about some of the world’s most dangerous jobs:


3 – “Workingman’s Death”

The late Director Michael Glawogger turned his cameras on some of the most shocking jobs you could have.

Here is the trailer:

The film is composed of six differently titled chapters. The first five depict hazardous conditions of hard laborers around the world and the sixth shows contrasting scenes of youths in a former German industrial complex which had been converted into a leisure park – this is one of the best documentaries I’ve ever seen. See more of this Directors work here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/11/22/searing-expose-docs-workingmans-death-whores-glory-brilliant-documentaries-showcase-life-on-the-edge/

OK, let’s lighten up with some Billy Idol, OK?

2 – “The Wedding Singer”

In 1998, Adam Sandler made one of his best movies, about a wedding singer who falls in love with Drew Barrymore – and yes, Billy Idol is in it too!

Here is the trailer:

This is a great “feel good” comedy, with Sandler giving one of his most effortless performances, and Billy Idol is hilarious in his cameo. Idol has had a well-deserved resurgence lately – check it out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/02/02/billy-idols-rebel-yell-adam-sandlers-wedding-singer-cameo-why-billy-idol-matters/

Finally, one of the greatest films ever made ends the list:


1 – “The Wild Bunch”

Director Sam Peckinpah depicted the wild west as never before in this brilliant 1969 film starring William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, Warren Oates and Robert Ryan. Here is the trailer:

The film showed more bloodshed than any movie before, and set a new standard for the depiction of violence on the screen. But it was also an homage to the wild west, and the desperados who wandered it…

It is a masterpiece – and you can see more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/08/05/the-wild-bunch-billy-the-kid-sam-packinpahs-soup-tossing/

So there you have it, ten films with a “W” that stand the test of time – even Withnail agrees!


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