by Sam Juliano
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the many people who have sent me moving condolences for the family tragedy that came to pass last weekend. All of us went through the most difficult time of our lives. My own physical discomfort has continued, and I have my procedure scheduled for early this morning, after a postponement. I have been dazed and aloof all week, and have been away from the computer room, and have spent most of the week at the homes of my 79 year-old father and 39 year-old brother. I just checked the activity over the past week, and it has been typically outstanding. Movie Man promised to “hold the fort” and he’s outdone himself in that regard. But Tony, Dennis, Dave, Dee Dee, Bobby J., John Greco, David S., Bob Clark, Anu, Samuel Wilson and Ari among others have really stepped to the plate for the site. I feel like a stranger now, but as I have always considered this a communal place, that’s a wonderful thing.
I see an impending wager with David Schleicher is imminent, as his Phillies and our Yankees will be meeting in the World Series. This should be quite a match.
I finally went out with Lucille over the weekend, as we had tickets that were purchased weeks in advance. We went to a Saturday afternoon staging of Frank Galati’s The Grapes of Wrath, based on Steinbeck’s masterpiece, by the New Jersey Shakespeare Society in Madison, New Jersey. The show was passable, but was rather dull, and conventionally performed.
I saw Lars Von Trier’s Anti-Christ on Saturday with Lucille and Broadway Bob, and I must admit I was in no state of mind to endure what was probably the bleakest and most disturbing film I have ever seen in my life. But I’m inclined to say that it’s still a masterpiece.
Anti-Christ **** 1/2 (Saturday night; IFC Film Center)
My apologies for not posting links this week, but I have been floored by what has transpired and am most uncomfortable.
As always, everyone is asked to talk about what they saw, read, listen to, ate. Sports and politics are on the table as well.
Hi! Sam Juliano, Allan, and WitD readers,
Sam Juliano said, “My apologies for not posting links this week, but I have been floored by what has transpired and am most uncomfortable.”
Sam, There is no need what so ever for you to apologize…and I’am so very sorry to hear that you are experiencing discomfort …especially, when it comes to your health issue and my condolences goes out to you and your family as you face your personal family tragedy.
What ever you do please try not to worry…I think some “movement” is/was good for you…to a certain extent…because it “distracted” you somewhat from your health issue.
…I ‘am quite sure that all the readers here at Wonders in the Dark understand…why you wasn’t able to link blogsites, leave comments, encouragement, etc, etc, etc….Sam Juliano, remember that you, and your family are in our (All the readers here at Wonders in the Dark…
(Well, I cannot speak for all the readers here at Wonders in the Dark, but I truly hope that you are in their thoughts too…)
…thoughts and prayers take care… as usual.
I will keep the lines of communication open with you too…as you prepare for your upcoming procedure as I’am quite sure that Allan, Tony, Joel, Dennis, Jamie, Bobby J, and all your friends, family, and most definitely the readers, here at Wonders in the Dark…will try to do too!
(Well, I cannot speak for all the readers here at Wonders in the Dark, but I truly hope that they keep the lines of communication open with you too…)
Sam Juliano said, “As always, everyone is asked to talk about what they saw, read, listen to, ate. Sports and politics are on the table as well. Here goes nothing…
…Films That I Watched (for the first time) or Rewatched…This Week:
To be perfectly, honest I didn’t watch any films this week…instead,
I either ordered films or purchased films.
I purchased…
The Bela Lugosi Collection (Murders in the Rue Morgue / The Black Cat / The Raven / The Invisible Ray / Black Friday)
after reading Tony D’Ambra’s review here…
The 1934 film The Black Cat-1934-erotic
and if you have change to spare you can purchase the poster here…
The Black Cat Poster
I also ordered…
Forgotten Noir Collector’s Set, Vol. 2 (The Man from Cairo / Mask of the Dragon / F.B.I. Girl / Tough Assignment / I’ll Get You / Fingerprints Don’t Lie)
and I planned to watch the other Tony D’Ambra recommended film In the Valley of Elah over there on Amazon.com in demand, but it’s no longer available to view.Therefore, I had to order the film, but if you (Wonders in the Dark readers,) would like to find out what the film In the Valley of Elah is all about go here…
In the Valley of Elah…
Films That I Purchased or Plan to Purchase later This Week: three hard to find classic Film Noir (That I have never watched)
1.The Glass Web
2.The Sell-Out,
3.Highway 301
I’am still waiting for the following three films as we type…from the Professor.
4.The Missing Juror
5.Hunted, and
6.Suspense.
Literature: Books That I Added To The Bookshelf…
Books on my (book) shelf and they are:
1. author Markus Zusak, very interesting book…The BooK Thief… in order to find out more information about this book just go here…
The Book Thief
2. author Ken Bruen’s Lost Boulevard…
3. …The Noir Thriller (Crime Files) by Lee Horsley
4.Denise Mina’s The Dead Hour…here goes her website…
Denise Mina
5. “The Thief Maker” by author D.H. Schleicher…
6. author Dan Brown’s “The Lost Symbol,”
7.Jane Mayer’s very interesting book “The Dark Side,” and
8.author James Ellroy’s new book “Blood’s a Rover.”
Arts…I have also resumed work at an Art Museum on Wednesday(s) and
in my freetime I purchased quite a few lobby cards and they are:
1.The Sniper Lobby Card…in preparation for Sony Film Noir Volume No#1
2.The Sniper (I acquired another card from a set of eight so far, and I purchased my first lobby card from the 1949/1950 film Side Street
after missing out on purchasing three or four cards from the set of eight last week.
3.The 1949 film The Bribe…starring R.Taylor. A.Gardner,V.Price and C.Laughton.
Theatre, No comment…
Music…No Comment
Food … Hmmm…a very light touch…as usual.
Sports… No Comment…
Politics…No Comment
Sam Juliano, I guess that about wrap up my week in review for this week.
DeeDee ;) :)
————————————————————————————————————
Cont…
As always Dee Dee, your words are the panacea for depression and physical discomfort and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your incomparable concern and compassion. All those additions to your shelves are wonderful, especially that Lugosi collection, which I do have and am quite fond of. The books too are an amazing batch.
Just wishing you all the best for the procedure, Sam, and hoping you are soon feeling better. So sorry about your family tragedy and that you have had such a hard week – I know everyone who visits this site will be thinking of you.
Thanks so much Judy! Things are coming along, and although I still have a less-invasive maneuver for about three weeks from now to handle the large stone that is still in the kidney, everything is looking up. I deeply appreciate the kind words of concern.
Yes, you just have to love Sam for insisting on going to see Antichrist in this of all weeks. Like going to see The Driver before your driving test.
My continued condolences for your loss and best wishes for your upcoming procedure. You have created a great thing here at Wonders, so it’s no surprise that it keeps going strong even when you take a short break. (Though we can’t wait to have you back!)
Keep strong.
Movie Man: I thank you for that! I see things are going along quite well here and we have you and some others to thank. As I stated above, things are slowly coming around.
Sam,
Best of luck with your procedure and hopes for a quick recovery. My heartfelt condolences on the recent family tragedy to both both you and your family.
The knowledgable folks here will keep the site running while you recover.
Movie wise this was a slow week with only two films watched. First up was fifties slock “High School Confidential” of which the opening sequence with rock and roll legend Jerry Lee Lewis singing the title song on the back of a pickup truck. The film is another attempt by Hollywood to show the drug problem in high Schools with Russ Tamblyn (about three years before West Side Story) as a high school student who is really working undercover. Third rate 1950’s sexpot Mamie Van Doren is his aunt! Jackie Coogan, Chaplin’s “The Kid”, is the big time drug dealer and Jan Sterling is a teacher trying to get Russ to go straight. Also in the cast are John Drew Barrymore, Charles Chaplin Jr. and Michael Landon in a small role. It is an OK exploitation flick that frankly could have used more of Jerry Lee Lewis rockin’.
The second film was “Wait Until Dark”, the 1967 thriller with Audrey Hepburn which I just posted on my blog.
Reading – I am in the middle of a book of Richard Matheson short stories compiled under the title “The Box” which is being released as a movie directed by Richard Kelly soon. Of the stories read so far, I liked “Button, Button”, “Girl of my Dreams” and “No Such Thing as a Vampire.” Did not care for “A Flourish of Strumpets” whose ending I think fell flat.
Also reading a new biography on Clint Eastwood called “American Rebel” by Marc Eliot. Eliot wrote a good biography on folksinger Phil Ochs (anyone remember him?) many years ago.
On TV, I finally caught up with Paul MacCartney’s July appearance on the David Letterman Show when it was repeated last week. Good interview and Paul performed two songs (Get Back and a song from The Fireman – Electric Arguments album)outside on Broadway on top of the marquee of the Ed Sullivan Theater.
Sam – Once again wishing the best and “get back” soon!
John you are an amazing guy! How you manage all that in a week is remarkable, but if anyone can do it I would believe it is you. You continued concern and compassion for me is appreciated more than I can say here!
I always found HIGH SCHOOL CONFIDENTIAL a guilty pleasure, and I am a big fan of Chaplin’s THE KID. Your review at Twenty-Four Frames of WAIT UNTIL DARK was terrific as usual and that is some reading list there being navigated!
Sam – I too wish you the best right now… it’s like you were hit with the double whammy in terms of your own health and then the family tragedy. I hope that things will ease for you very soon.
I didn’t get to watch a whole lot this week, but have some lined up for today/tomorrow. I’m really looking forward to finally seeing DODSWORTH after DVRing it last week. I have heard great things about it and am excited about it.
On a positive note… the Bengals absolutely destroyed the Bears yesterday and are now 5-2! It was the first time all year that the offense played whole as a whole, so hopefully the success will continue after the bye week.
After reading my response here, I realize that my usual typos make my last sentence incomprehensible. It should say: “It was the first time all year that the offense played well as a whole unit…”
Hoorah for the Bengals Dave! Hope their season improves as we proceed. Thanks so much for all your sustained support and concern. You are one of those truly special people. I’d love to hear your views on DODSWORTH!
Sam, so sorry to hear about the family tragedy that you are experiencing. Our thoughts are with you. I know how it can be. So take your time.
This week….I watched…
‘Hung’ – a new HBO series that got a rather unique premise and does at least address the current economic maliase obliquely. The pilot episode was good, it remains to be seen if it pans out to something special or dissipates.
‘In Treatment’ – another HBO show, with word on the street that this may be something really good. This one is 5 x 30 minute episodes stripped, one per day Monday to Friday. It deals with the thearapist and 4 of his clients; Laura – Monday, Sophie – Wednesday, ect, ect. Friday, he goes to see his own counsellor. The following week, we evesdrop on him in his second session, the 3rd is his third session with his clients. In this way, it both mimics real therapy and has a soap-opera continuity and pull. So far, after the first 8 episodes, it has been riveting. It’s format is unique and reminds me of ‘Crown Court’ a fondly remembered British daytime show of the ’70s. I think I now have my post-‘Wire’ fix.
Robspierre; A BBC drama-documentary about one of the leaders of the French Revolution and it’s subsquent phase ‘The Terror’ which claimed 55,000 lives. It mixed in image of Mao, Stalin and Castro. For pete’s sake, Castro! How in tarnation can those mass murderers be linked up with a leader who, after the revolution went to see Ike and got Nixon and snubbed plus numerous assaination attempts from the start. Very dubious.
Watched the first hour of Dr. Mabuse (1922) – a labourious 4 hour plus ‘epic’ that been an utter bore so far. Lang needed a stop-watch. I will probably endure the rest.
‘Roger, Dodger’*** (3/4) – a very acute examination of male/female dynamics as the estranged uncle of a wayward youth tutors him on meeting women. Reminded me of ‘Swingers’.
Listen to 5 Episodes of ‘The Campbell Playhouse’ with Orson Welles. The first two were very good; Rebecca** and A Christmas Carol**, Mutiny on the Bounty, Counsellor-at-Law and Aroowsmith were compentent.
Finished reading ‘The Parades Gone By’**** a brillaint book about the Silent cinema.
Believe it or not Bobby, the only one of all you saw here that I have seen is the Lang. I’ll say it needs more than a single viewing, but I’ll agree it’s a slow-go. I will take note of all of the rest here by writing the titles down, and at some point will get to some. I am as always fascinated by your comprehensive/fascinating report. That silent cinema volume sounds essential, especially with our silent poll right around the corner. Silent films are my own favorite genre, as it is Allan’s. Thanks for your kind words!
Sam I have to say under the circumstances I’m stunned you decided to see Antichrist and even more shocked that you loved it.
I say this as someone who also liked it (somewhat less than you, but still) but if you’d asked me if you should go, I probably would’ve said no.
You’re probably in mid-procedure as I write this, but I’m hoping it all goes well and I wish you a speedy recovery. Continued condolences also for your family tragedy.
Aye, Craig, my seeing ANTI-CHRIST at this time was rather unconcionable. I judged it on its own terms, but there isn’t a more disturbing film in all of cinema. As always I greatly appreciated your words of support, kindness and concern which are just what the doctor ordered.
Sam, my heartfelt condolences. And wish you all the best for your procedure and hoping for a quick recovery to your healthy and hearty best.
Its been an excruciatingly slow movie-watching week for me – has been for sometime, and unfortunately will continue, too, for quite sometime as I’m busy with some personal and professional commitments. Watched Jerichow (posted review at my blog) & Milos Forman’s The Firemen’s Ball (will post its review in a day or two).
As for books, finished Cormac McCarthy’s No Country for Old Men a few days back. Reading a collection of novels by a writer called Saradindu Bandopadhyay – I’m sure none of your readers will have heard the name :) He was a renowned novelist in the Bengali language – which incidentally happens to be my mother tongue. To give an analogy, I like to call him the equivalent of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in terms of narrative style (like Doyle, he was a wonderful storyteller) & versatility in terms of crossing across genres. In fact a few weeks back I was reading his detective stories which are immensely well respected in Bengali literature, while now I’m reading his historical novels.
Hoping to have you at your physical & emotional best sooner rather than later. Take care.
Hey Shubhajit!
Thanks so much for coming to bat for me, and for your kindness there. Very much appreciated! I will be sure to check out those reviews you posted very soon. (THE FIREMAN’S BALL is a very great film) I bet our own Kaleem Hasan will recognize that Bengali author you speak of there. (Saradindu Bandopadhyay) I do love Arthur Conan Doyle (and Agatha Christie especially) so I can well understand your affinity for his style. Speaking of Cormac McCarhy, I wonder if you’ve read THE ROAD which will be hitting the moving screens soon?
Hope you are doing well. I haven’t read his The Road yet though of course I’ve heard a lot of good things about it. But given that I loved his No Country for Old Men, don’t be surprised if start devouring his other books as well.
Thanks again Shubhajit; as my friend Tony d’Ambra has advised me: “Take it one day at a time.” I am trying to focus on my interests and on my family. Tonight we are going to a ‘Haunted School’ event in my hometown, and I may even see the critically-praised horror film, THEHOUSEOF THEDEVIL at the Angelika late tonight. Thanks for your concern and support. You are a classy person. I’m sure you will adore THEROAD, and Id love to hear your views if you get to any other McCarthy novels.
Best wishes for comfort and recovery, Sam. I’m also surprised that you saw and appreciated Antichrist, but then you’ve always been one to view films objectively, outside of your own circumstances. Can’t say I’d have been able to do the same – I’ve not encountered nearly the suffering you have recently and I’m still unlikely to see Antichrist for fear of being too disturbed.
Anyway, there was a small film festival in town and I saw several decent but not outstanding films:
Ink – a brooding sci-fi thriller people have compared to Donnie Darko and The Matrix. Very low budget ($250k) doesn’t show in the impressive effects, but the acting left something to be desired and its a bit too ambitious for a first feature.
Colin – the big zombie hit out of Cannes certainly does deliver some impressive gore for its near-zero budget. The camera work is way too shaky (I don’t get sick, just aggravated), and I think they amped it up to make up for a lack of effects. The story plods as well. But hey, you don’t always see a film made for no money. Zombie fans will have a much better time with this than anyone else.
Etienne! – a delightful dramedy about a guy in San Francisco who learns his dwarf hamster has cancer and so decides to show it the world before the end of its life. Charming and with a great soundtrack, and as innocent as it sounds.
That’s all I saw – still hoping to see Amreeka and Good Hair this week sometime.
Dan, GOOD HAIR was OK, but I must say I really liked AMREEKA, so I’m hoping to hear a report from you that you managed to catch it. I wonder how that zombie film you saw at the festival measures up to ZOMBIELAND? I found it far better than I expected, as it blended humor masterfully into the proceedings. The film about the hamster with cancer does sound charming, although INK (based on your report here) is not one I’m looking forward to.
Alas, I do try and judge films on their own terms Dan, although the temptation to dismiss ANTI-CHRIST in view of my own mental and emotional suffering was great. But my track record with Von Trier has been superlative (two of his films were #1 of their respective years with me–DANCER IN THE DARK and DOGVILLE) and two others, MANDERLAY and BREAKING THE WAVES made my top 10 of their years) and than dark Scandinavian tone, perfected by Bergman has always been my cup of tea. The “epilogue” of ANTI-CHRIST was one of the most sublimely beautiful sequences of any seen on movie screens this year.
I appreciate your compassion and kind words. You are a true friend.
Sam –
I have not been on line much lately, so I may have missed an update. For whatever family tragedy you are experiencing, may I send my heartfelt condolescences, good thoughts and prayers. May you and your family be well.
So you liked “Antichrist”? I plan to see it, but am wary. I had heard ealier that it would be on IFC ON Demand, so I’m hoping I get to see from the comfort of my home and with ready access to the Fast Forward button on my remote.
As for my weekend, I saw and greatly enjoyed “A Serious Man,” was mildly amused by “The Invention of Lying,” and greatly enjoyed revisiting “Monty Python’s Life of Brian” which I had recorded during IFC’s just-concluded, weeklong 40th anniversary Python tribute.
Wonderful hearing from you Pat! I appreciate the concern and kind words. As I stated further on down this thread, I lost one of my three brothers (51) to drug abuse. Joe led a troubled and turbulent life but was a successful plumbing contractor, was finantially solid and had everything to live for. But after 18 years he relapsed again, and this time there was no comeback as there had been many times before. The entire affair has been heartbreaking for all of us.
Pat, I’ll admit that ANTI-CHRIST will absolutely revulse as many as it captivates. In fact the critical concensus is sharply divided as you probably have seen. You have a very good strategy their with the remote and the fast-forward.
THE INVENTION OF LYING, was passable, methinks, so I’m pretty much with you there. I did not find it as solid as GHOST TOWN, which better displayed Gervais’s talents. I am thrilled to hear what you thought of A SERIOUS MAN (perhaps you’ll have something up at Doodad’s?) and MONTY PYTHON is a classic. It’s always a treat to have you stop by.
Well, my friend, good to have you back. I too offer well wishes on your speedy recovery (be careful with eating nuts and anything too acidic) and, of course, you know my feelings on the loss you and your family suffered. Remember, what doesn’t kill us only makes us stronger. On the lighter note; we had some wonderful threads going here in the past few days. Personally, I didn’t go to the movies this weekend. I didn’t read. No TV. Actually, even meals were put on hold as there was very important and pressing matters this weekend.. I WAS LEBOWSKI-ING ALL WEEKEND. We went over every line, great moment about THE BIG LEBOWSKI anyone ever could. In tribute I proclaim that, at Sam’s next Oscar party we fly everyone from WITD to party and celebrate the gathering by smoking weed, drinking white russians and walking around in bath-robes and bermuda shorts. Lucille can cook up some magic brownies and Sam can smash in windshields (just like Walter) when his favorite flick doesn’t win.
Dennis, I’m not interested in magic brownies, drink or weed and never have been as you know, but i say say to each their own. Yes, your Lebowski-mission here was a huge success, and I thank you for speer-heading the enrapturing discourse. Thanks for the sage advice and compassionate words my very good friend.
Cont…
Hi! Sam Juliano, Allan, and Wonders in the readers…
It appears that while running the “race” Joseph “Jon” Lanthier, beat me to the “finish line!”…
…Because while I was out there “lurking” in the blogsphere ran across this post by Joseph “Jon” Lanthier, from over there at aspiringsellout
entitled Seedy Pulp Fiction
•Studio: Sony Pictures…For those of you who are interested
Director Sam Fuller’s Boxset is going to be Release tomorrow…
Date: 10/27/2009
• SYNOPSIS:
It Happened in Hollywood (1937)
Adventure in Sahara (1938)
Power of the Press (1943)
Shockproof (1949)
Scandal Sheet (1952)
The Crimson Kimono (1959)
Underworld U.S.A. (1961)
BONUS FEATURES:
•Martin Scorsese on Underworld U.S.A
•Curtis Hanson: The Culture Of The Crimson Kimono
•Sam Fuller’s Search For Truth
•Sam Fuller Storyteller
Wow Dee Dee!!! I wasn’t aware of that Fuller set releasing this week!!! I wonder if Allan is on top of it?!? I definitely will be acquiring it. What with prior Fuller releases on Eclipse and Criterion (and some other individual releases) this should pretty much have all of Fuller out there. But this set sounds great with the extras too.
I must visit our dear friend Jon and check out his ‘Seedy Pulp Fiction’ essay.
Thanks again for the latest enlightenment Dee Dee!
Sam – My deepest condolences for your loss.
I do hope upon recovery you are able to grace us with a full write-up of Antichrist. Does anyone know has it been “edited” for its American release?
A quick rundown of what I watched up return from my vacation to upstate NY:
Sabotage — ****
Metropolitan — ****
The Haunting in Connecticut — **
Re-watched “Barton Fink” — ****1/2
So Wednesday night….Phillies vs. Yankees. Should be one for the ages.
Thanks very much for that David. Recovery will be slow, but I’m sure time will be an ally here.
David, I was not aware that this version of ANTI-CHRIST was “edited?” How was it edited if I may ask? I find it an amazing fact as the film was seemingly completely uncompromising. But as I stated above, I can envision a lot of hate for this film, and can even understand it. But I found it as an “extremely dark work of art.” And I do plan on reviewing it, though a number of promised posts, like the Brit Noir wrap-up have been grossly delayed in view of the problems I have had in my life.
I also like SABOTAGE and BARTON FINK (a bit less than you do) and agree that METROPOLITAN is excellent. You are just about right there with the rating for HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT.
It’s still raining here in the NYC area, so I am finding it hard to believe the game will be played tonight, but fans have their fingers crossed. I agree it should be quite a series!
ATTENTION! ATTENTION!! I just got of the phone with Sam. I was asked to let everyone here know that his kidney-stone procedure went off perfectly. While in a little discomfort and laid quite groggy from the whole experience, he assured me he was doing well and hoping to be back here at the site soon. Schmulee told me the Doctors loaded him up with perkasettes (did I spell that right?), but he didn’t want to take them because of the nausea it induces in him. Of course, I told Sam that if he wanted to unload them o, I would be more than happy to take them off his hands (BEER PARTY ANYONE?!?!. Anyway, I’ll be keeping everyone here informed on Schmulee’s progress till he’s ready to get back on his feet. He also thanks everyone for the kind words of condolence on his family tragedy this past week. I’ll be attending dinner with Sam tomorrow and I’ll keep you all posted on his condition. Thanx, Dennis
Ah, percocets… the lone bright spot in my own insane medical history. Tell him to enjoy! :)
In all seriousness, dennis, give him my best. Hopefully his recovery goes as well as the operation.
Thanks again Dave. I am feeling much better today.
Thanks Dennis. You are quite a character. LOL!!!
Hi! Dennis,
That is great news to hear…Thanks, so much for sharing and keeping readers, here at Wonders in the Dark up to date when it comes to Sam Juliano, medical condition/health issue…because I know how worried and concern Sam Juliano, was before this procedure took place.
Thanks,
DeeDee ;)
Dee Dee, I’ve used up all superlatives to describe you. Suffice to say you are a saint.
Actually, the last time I took Perkosette’s was for herniated lower back discs about a year and a half ago. They masked the pain beautifully (that is, until I was able to get readjusted by a great chiropractor). I also found that, when mixing these pain-killers with marajuana, nitrous-oxcide (cracked from a container and then inhaled from a baloon), and Kehtomine (cooked then snorted-LOL) the rush is that of perfect euphoric relaxation. Movies get deeper. Music (particularly classical or trance) is hypnotic ans sex (well you people figure that one out)… Then, top the whole thing off with a Vallium (Mothers Little Helper) and you can’t even feel the floor you’re walking on. I tend to smile a lot and understand the plot points of THE BIG LEBOWSKI a whole lot more. So, what was I saying??? Oh, Sam’s gonna be fine. Gotta go, my brownies are ready now….LOL!!!
Hi! D.H.S.,
D.H.S said,”Does anyone know has it (The film “The Antichrist”) been “edited” for its American release?
Maybe Jon, or Allan, know the answer to your question…
…By the way, Is that director (Alfred) Hitchcock’s 1936 film Sabotage that you watched or is it another film with the same title?
DeeDee ;) :)
DeeDee — ’twas the ’36 Sabotage from Hitch indeed. Loved it!
I also forgot I saw “The Edge of Love” with Kiera Knightley and Sienna Miller…but as it instantly left my memory, I forgot to note it here. Suffice it to say, I give it ** at best as it was rather stylishly photographed.
David, I don’t remember THE EDGE OF LOVE. Odd?
No, I sent it you months ago, Sam. It’s of note for the performances, not much else.
My good friend, take it easy and relax. You have gone through the roughest of times. You know I’m here for you buddy.
Yes Joe I know you are and I can’t say how much I appreciate that…..always!
Sam, I must say in a sense I’m shocked at your reaction to ‘Anti-Christ,’ but as you are a big fan of the director (and of Ingmar Bergman) it makes some sense.
My deepest condolences on your terrible loss and with your discomfort. I know you will bounce back.
Indeed Frank. My past partiality to Von Trier’s style, tone and context has always seemed to lure me to his work. It was admittedly a rough film to watch at this time however. Thanks so much for the kind words.
I would like to thank everyone on this thread and many others for their support and compassion over the past week.
I lost one of my three brothers, a 51 year old plumber, Joseph, who passed away last Sunday night due to drug-related causes. Joe battled his demons through his life, but the latest episode was painful and shocking to all of us, as he has been clean for almost 18 years. He was one who always had dificulty in coping with life’s pressures, and it appears his demise was self-inflicted. Needless to say the depression felt by my father, brother Tom, brother Paul and sister Theresa is overwhelming. As my dear New Zealandic friend here on these threads said to me in an e mail “Life stings like a bitch sometimes.” It’s been the worst time of our lives.
I will proceed to respond to all the terrific sobmissions on this thread later today. Thank You.
Sam, My prayers to you and your family on your loss. We all at times have had to go through something like this and it is never easy. Remember the good times you had… no one can take those away.
I am glad to hear you are did well with your procedure. Take care, buddy.
Ah John, your words are always comforting to me and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Leaving my comments about movies I watched seems insignificant to me, in light of the events that you went through. Words can’t express how sad that news is. I hope and pray that you and your family are able to somehow find some solace while going through the difficult after-effects of such a tragedy. Please take care.
Troy: You are a prince, and one of the nicest people I have met on-line. You are free to discuss anything here, I am starting to come around now in a mental and physical sense, but your placing things in proper perspective is much appreciated.
Sam, I’m so very saddened to here about the bereavement that you’ve suffered. Words can’t really express much at this time. Please take it easy. My condolances, to you and your family.
Bobby: Again I thank you for your considerate and compassionate words.
I saw “Amelia” and found it dull, superficial and unimaginative. The director has a very undistinguished track record. The acting and music were fine, but at 111 minutes this was actually too long.
Best Wishes Sam for physical and mental recovery. I know your are resilient and will be well soon enough. It took a lot of courage for you to see “Anti Christ.” I wouldn’t never have been able to do it.
Thanks so much David (again) for your exceeding kindness. I did hear some very lukewarm reports on AMELIA so I’m hardly surprised.
As Sue said to me this morning, Joey was a talented guy. What happened is one of life’s mysteries, and one that I’m sure will affect you for a long time. You and your family are in our thoughts always. It seems that movies and the like are all besides the point at a time like this. We are available here as I’m sure you know.
Peter, like Troy you put things in the right perspective. But at some point I must acknowledge that life goes on, and we must rebound from life’s worst moments. Joey had talent, no question about it.
I’m sure I speak for Sammy when I say the words of condolences and kindness from everyone here is astoundingly touching. I’ve been blogging here with the group for some time now and feel, as I’m sure many do, that this site is not just an aversion, but a place where FRIENDS meet and talk about their passions and interests. I think too, that we all watch over each other here even when the distances between us are separated by miles, states and, yes, even oceans. There is a sort of psychic bond here we all share. As for Sam, he is always surrounded by love. His wife Lucille is one of those rare birds that effortlessly supports and nurtures her clan. Sam’s five adorable children never cease to keep things lively and firmly put a stamp on the impotance and responsibilities in life. They are the driving incentive in the Juliano house and all wonderful and loving kids. Also, with friends both here and home, Sammy will never be alone. Schmulee, you’re a lucky guy.
Lovely words there Dennis.
Saw PARANORMAL ACTIVITY tonite by Sams suggestion. What an effectively creepy film this was. Beautifully balanced in it unfolding and playing up on real fears we have of the unknown, the dark and invasion of privacy. The ending is shocking and unforgettable and the use of the hand-held camera brilliantly conveyed the idea that “all of what follows is true.” This film is in the vein of the equally effective and brilliant THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECT. I highly recommend PARANORMAL ACTIVITY.
Indeed Dennis. I have a rather positive opinion of PARANORMAL ACTIVITY and was appreciative to Broadway Bob for providing the perfect screener, which btw had a different ending than the version we saw at the theatre.
Yes, Lucille told me about the theatrical ending you both saw at the Edgewater Theatre showing of PARANORMAL ACTIVITY. What I (and Lucille and the kids) saw on the screener was far more disturbing in the grand scheme of the film. I found this film to be very disturbing, ultimately, and I think this is because the ending I saw made no illusions of any kind of happy denoument. This finale is shocking and saddening and a reminder to all that sometimes things are best left un-disturbed. This was a finely constructed mockumentary, well researched to make the proceeding sing with an authentucity so many films on this subject miss. The use of the hand-held camera and its lighting lent an eery incandescence that put you in the film rather than separate you from the character predicament. The effects of sound, editing and camera movement all added to the realism of the film, making its otherworldly subject seem authentic. I will admit to sleeping with the lights on in the hall-way last night. This is one SCARY film.
I think Sam’s daughter, Gillian, in her reaction (both verbal and physical) to PARANORMAL ACTIVITY, perfefectly illustrated its power. Burying her head, at times in a pillow and stating: “IM REALLY NOT LIKING THIS”. The thing about PARANORMAL ACTIVITY is that its compulsively watchable. We don’t like what we see. We begin to feel uncomfortable because we are summising the fates of the main characters before we get to the finale, and we know it may not end well. Yet, we cannot take our eyes off the screen. Fascination in the unknown, our natural curiosity when it comes to the strange and our predilections towards the gruesome are all magnets that draw us to films like this. Its like slowing down on the freeway to look at a car wreck you’re passing. Its this quality that propels me into reviewing it in the positive, it does what it sets out to do: SCARE THE SHIT OUT OF YOU. But, while I’ll praise it, I won’t wanna view it again. This is a nightmarish film. I agree with Sam’s 4 out of 5 stars.
this week in the theaters I saw ‘Paranormal Activity’ that was pretty good for what it was. I can’t expect much with the budget, but it had me quite nervous throughout.
I saw ‘Antichrist’ twice in the theaters this week (and I plan on watching it ondemand this week so I can tape it). I say it’s just about the film of the year so far of what I’ve seen.
I finally saw ‘Bright Star’ which I liked, too. I’m usually not the biggest period piece moviegoer but the photography was pretty great. Overall I’d recommend it, it seems like it would be a good date movie, if you are into dating.
On dvd I saw ‘the Brothers Bloom’ (love that Rachel Weisz, and A. Brody is becoming one of my favorite contemporary actors), ‘Darjeerling Limited’ (which I thought was decent, I’m not the biggest Wes Anderson fan either), ‘Cat in the Brain’ (gore shlock from Fulci), ‘The Apartment’ (what can I say, it’s a masterpiece and Billy Wilder is so freakin’ talented), ‘For Ever Mozart’ (Godard I hadn’t seen in years that I included on my 90’s list so I wanted to rewatch), Herzog’s ‘The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser’ (which is very good), and finally Sergio Martino’s 1973 giallo ‘Torso’. I’ve written a review of ‘Torso’ for Kevin’s giallo blog-a-thon Sam should I send it your way?
Books I’ve been reading mostly G. Marcus ‘Lipstick Traces’ which I’m finding is VERY enjoyable.
Oh and I’d be aloof to add that the NBA season started this week. My Cavaliers look a little sluggish out of the gate to say the least. I am an NBA junkie to say the least. I spent my Ohio youth rooting for the Mark Price/Craig Ehlo Cavs teams…
and the movie tie in is that I may try and see ‘More then a Game’ this week at the local AMC. we’ll see if I make it.
Jamie: PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE send that giallo review, as it would make for a fine Halloween post. I have a review of SON OF FRANKENSTEIN which I did for Dee Dee for her site, Darkness Into Light, ready to post in the morning at Dee’s suggestion, but the giallo review would go up almost immediately afterwards! I haven’t seen that film myself as of yet, but I agree with your position on both ANTI-CHRIST and BRIGHT STAR. OK, someone is holding a gun to my head and is now asking me to list my Top 10 films of 2009 (so far) so I’ll go this way. But tomorrow I may have a different listing. Ha!
Not a fan of DARJEELING, but a huge fan of THEAPARTMENT of course, and also KASPER HAUSER, but haven’t seen the Fulci or the Godard yet. BLOOM is ok.
I must mention to you here that you presented me with a lovely, moving poem on my loss. That was classy, and I won’t ever forget it.
1. Bright Star (Campion, New Zealand)
2. Anti-Christ (Von Trier; Denmark)
3. 35 Shots of Rum (Denis; France)
4. Summer Hours (Assayas; France)
5. District 9 (Blomkamp; South Africa/New Zealand)
6. A Serious Man (Coens; USA)
7. Of Time and the City (Davies; USA)
8. Up (Docter; USA)
9. Flame and Citron (Madsen; Denmark)
10. Any of the following: Star Trek, The Hurt Locker, Everlasting Delights, Tokyo Sonata, Sommers Town, In the Loop and a few more are still contending for the list, much less the Number 10 spot.)
Wow, didn’t know you were such a big NBA fan. Was never a fan myself, though years back I did sporadically follow the Knicks and Nets. Funny, but I played a lot of basketball in my younger days and was a sturdy rebounder, and I was a fanatical high school basketball fan, travelling to all the towns on the schedule for a number of years…………..Good luck to the Cavs!
I like this top ten you’ve submitted. I’ve seen them all except for 3, 4, and 8. And the 10’s I’ve only seen ‘The Hurt Locker’ (which I’d rate higher). I don’t ever see Pixar films (I’ve only seen one they’ve ever done–on purpose). I didn’t like ‘District 9′ as much as you, and I’d obviously have ‘Inglorious Basterds’ in my top 10.
I agree ‘Brother’s Bloom’ was just OK, lot’s of style… it reminded my of how old hollywood pictures were. Pretty people, in pretty clothes, with a professional script. As such I found it recommendable, just lightweight.
I’ve sent the ‘Torso’ review hope you like it.
Yes big Cavs/NBA fan. As a Cleveland emigre in Chicago, I find following the NFL/Browns to not be worth the time, and I can’t follow the power structure that is the MLB. I mean my old favorite Indians put BOTH starting pitchers (and the last two cy youngs) out for game one. The MLB is 5 or 6 haves and about 25 have-nots, working as farm teams for the haves.