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Harry's DVD Picks & Peeks - 3rd wk of April 2011: Donnie Yen, a Best Picture, Peter Weir, Captain Planet & more!!!
Hey folks, Harry here – and holy shit am I whupped by today’s Rehab. They got me in one of those crazy walking traps like we put babies in before they can really walk, except there’s no fucking chew toys – or rattles – and that pisses me off, because I wouldn’t mind walking into a wall and just chewing on a teething key. But that and all the crazy triceps exercises has me feeling like a crack head in a padded cell, silently trembling and muttering various curse words under my breath, so nobody can hear. There’s some pretty killer releases today – and next week as you’ll see. But this first one, if you love badassery, it doesn’t get much more badass or cool than IP MAN 2. As usual all the images and links will take you to Amazon where you can learn more or purchase the item in question. If you do purchase through the link, bless you. It really does help keep the column going, so thank all of you for keeping me doing this labor of love. Now, enjoy…
Tuesday, April 19th, 2011
This IS the BluRay you are looking for. Watching this back to back with the first IP MAN is simply too much ass-kicking awesome for a single evening, so break it up. The great thing is – even if you’ve never seen the first IP MAN, this movie works wonderfully, but if you’ve seen the first film – there’s a ton of stuff you’ll really grok. Now for the Kung Fu flick novices out there – IP MAN is the name of the martial arts master of Wing Chun that taught Bruce Lee. The first film was about the moment in Ip Man’s life where he went from being a private master of the martial arts, to teaching – and how that came to be. This film is about him actually beginning to formally teach as a paid Master. Oh – and this time Donnie Yen fights Sammo Hung… and folks – when you see the glorious fat one – and the table surrounded by upside down stools… Do not answer the phone, do not use the restroom. Do not allow yourself to be distracted by anything, because you’re about to behold awesome at a level that’ll leave marks on your ass from kicking it so goddamn hard. IP MAN 2 – it’s as great as they get. And yes, I would love a third film.
If you like realistic non-stylized cinema, this might not be for you, but if you remember the film, CASSHERN – which while it didn’t entirely work as a film – it had imagery and a look unlike anything I’ve really seen. Well – this is Kazuaki Kiriya next film and as someone that loved a lot of CASSHERN, the one thing that I know without question – is that after I saw CASSHERN, I knew – beyond any doubt, that I’d see anything that Kazuaki Kiriya would make. Funimation didn’t send a screener, but I’ve already ordered the film, I’m hoping it comes tomorrow. My understanding is that it is a Robin Hood-esque style story, but with ninjas and way the hell out there visuals. I’m looking forward to mail tomorrow.
I like KING’S SPEECH. I absolutely feel that the film misses great on several levels. For one, it is another over-coming a handicap story – and while yes, I am someone overcoming a handicap – and yes, I am currently living a story that doesn’t quite have this level of majesty – and while I have no enemies nearing the fucked up stature of Der Fuhrer… I didn’t like Colin’s “can’t do it” attitude – it’s just a bitchy sort of attitude that I didn’t enjoy at all. I get he was raised that way, but – my every day life is facing impossible tasks and breaking them down till they are not only possible, but easy. And every single time I master one of those, there’s something that absolute humbles me – and it feels scary and impossible all over again. That said – I rewatched THE KING’S SPEECH on Blu Ray about a week ago – and dropped the whole “Best of the Year” publicity and just watched it as a film. And ya know… it’s a damn fine film. It just isn’t my fave of last year or near the top of my picks for the best of 2010.
I’ll be honest. I’m too emotional a person to watch this film right now. I watched this last year for Awards consideration – it tore me up – and I just can’t imagine watching it again. It’s a brutal film emotionally – and there’s light and hope in there, but goddamn it. This is one helluva great film. But if you’re as emphatic a film watcher as me, it’s a tough, but worthy ride. Just know that there’s a very strong chance you’ll be affected deeply by the film.
I’m not a fan of MORTAL KOMBAT – and it is mainly because I really do feel the film just kind of blows. But I figured I’d let you folks know it was available, if you like sub-par martial arts – but IP MAN 2 owns this upon every level.
Did you see this epic film from Peter Weir? I didn’t see it in time for my best of last year list, but it is a film that should not be overlooked. This is a true story about escaping a WWII gulag in Siberia, then hiking 4,500 miles to freedom. This film is amazing. For one, it has a great cast with Ed Harris, Jim Sturgess, Colin Farrell and Saoirse Ronan. Weir shot the hell out of this – and when you see all the different locales and vistas… all the things they have to overcome – and just exactly how dire their direst stretches are… it makes anything you’re faced with seem small by comparison. An incredible story and a great film! A must to see on Blu.
Mediocre, thy name be GULLIVER’S TRAVELS. There are piss gags, asshole humor and there’s even an extended cross-dressing sequence. I like Jack Black. So as a result I was able to watch the entire film. There’s a lot of folks that I like that are acting in this turd – and just looking at that box cover – well it tells you everything about how awful this film is. I hate it. Hate it. The self-promotion of Fox products throughout every moment of this film literally makes you want to piss in a zip lock bag and mail it to Fox. There’s a lot of money in this – and some very talented visual fx guys that probably spent nights crying that they had to digitally make a miniature man disappear up Jack Black’s ass. I mean. How evil is that? Poor guys and gals. Chin up – there can’t be a darker pit of hell in your careers. You folks survived GULLIVER’S TRAVELS – you can tell the story of woe and get a drink bought for you in any bar in the world. “I spent a month of my life animating a giant robot pantsing Jack Black!”
As bad as GULLIVER’S TRAVELS is – at least it has rare moments of signs of life. SOMEWHERE is a dead film for me. I love Sophia Coppola’s films, but this movie, it’s just dreadful – and that’s mainly due to Stephen Dorff’s inability to be charismatic in the least. A story with no resolution and that’s really the part that hurts most. Everything that Sophia has done has wrapped up wonderfully. SOMEWHERE takes you nowhere and that’s what is so infuriating about it. She’s a massively talented filmmaker who can do much better than this. And has done so often.
My parents used to tune into this a bit on PBS in the 70s and I had a weird nostalgic, “OOOOooh Yeahhhh!” when I saw the box for this in my mail about 3 weeks ago. I’ve watched a few bits here and there and this is kinda friggin awesome. I highly suggest discovering Ernie – he’s pretty awesome. * Episodes From His Local and National Morning Shows * Episodes From His NBC Prime-Time Show * Kovacs On Music * Five ABC TV Specials * The Color Version of His Legendary Silent Show, Eugene * His Award-Winning Commercials for Dutch Masters Cigars * Short Films, Tributes, Rarities * 44-Page Booklet Featuring Rare Photos, Program Notes and an Essay by Jonathan Lethem ( Motherless Brooklyn)
CAPTAIN PLANET AND THE PLANETEERS: Season One
Most people I knew made fun of this show when it aired. But look at us now – crazy gas prices, massive pollution incidents, erosion issues… it’s an environmental war-zone out there and where’s Captain Planet and his Planeteers when you need them? Well, now you’ve got them on DVD. And really, all our problems are solved. The most fun about this show is the voice cast – they got some pretty awesome talent involved in this show – and it’s pretty entertaining. Now – to cast Tom Cruise as Captain Planet in a live action film. Giggle. Personally, make mine Toxie!
Ken Loach’s KES is one of the great films. In the UK, it is highly revered, here it has gone mostly unseen for a very long time. Now Criterion is righting that massive wrong. A film that explores the inevitable end and reality of childhood. The result is a film that if you’ve seen it, you’ll never forget. If you haven’t you’re unhaunted by the emotions this film elicits. It also makes me feel very lucky about my own life. Great film – and Criterion did it up right. Here’s what they have for us:
New, restored digital transfer, approved by director Ken Loach and director of photography Chris Menges, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack on the Blu-ray edition
Making “Kes”, a new documentary featuring Loach, Menges, producer Tony Garnett, and actor David Bradley
The Southbank Show: “Ken Loach” (1993), a profile of the filmmaker, featuring Loach, Garnett, directors Stephen Frears and Alan Parker, and other Loach collaborators
Cathy Come Home (1967), a feature directed by Loach and produced by Garnett, with an introduction by film writer Graham Fuller
Original theatrical trailer
PLUS: A booklet featuring an essay by Fuller
IF GOD IS WILLING AND DA CREEK DON’T RISE
Spike Lee returns to New Orleans in this 4 hour documentary showing New Orleans as it stands 5 years after Katrina. If you saw his fantastic WHEN THE LEVEES BROKE – this film is, even stronger. The BP incident just adds insult to a city already injured. It will give you hope, make you laugh, cry and foam at the mouth pissed off at this world we share. And for some, the film will play as a call to arms for their own lives.
#5 is alive – but barely in SHORT CIRCUIT 2. I miss my Ally, she and that blasted Robot completely own me in the first film – but Fisher Stevens is not enough. Not for me. Watch #5 make a shit ton of miniaturized versions of himself so Fisher Stevens can get a clueless toy exec at a New York Department store. Woo-hoo, big fun. Facetiously applied.
From the crazy mind of Yoshihiro Nishimura comes unbridled horror insanity and fetishisms thrown out at the speed of thought. This is an absurd trashy fun film that deserves to be on blu ray if for no other reason to more clearly understand the insanity that you’re looking at. Very fun flick.
Jane Campion’s film before THE PIANO was pretty damn extraordinary, though THE PIANO is still her best film to date, to me. That said, her debut film SWEETIE is a remarkable first outing. A fantastic story of sisters that you won’t forget. Criterion has brought this back to the forefront with these extras and a beautiful transfer:
Restored digital transfer, supervised by director of photography Sally Bongers and approved by director Jane Campion, with DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack
Audio commentary featuring Campion, Bongers, and screenwriter Gerard Lee
Making Sweetie, a video conversation between stars Genevieve Lemon and Karen Colston
Campion’s early short films An Exercise in Discipline: Peel, Passionless Moments, and A Girl’s Own Story
Jane Campion: The Film School Years, a 1989 video conversation between Campion and critic Peter Thompson
Gallery of behind-the-scenes photos and production stills
Original theatrical trailer
PLUS: A booklet featuring an essay by film scholar Dana Polan
GAUMONT TREASURES Vol 2: 1908-1916
If you saw Gaumont’s first trove of treasures – you’ll jump on this automatically. For me, this is as close to time traveling as we humans get – looking back through the lens of the early filming pioneers to see the world, entertainment and all – as it were over a hundred years ago… It’s just amazing. I didn’t get this release, so I can’t go into it, but here’s what AMAZON says about this release:
This second series of releases of Gaumont Treasures surveys the work of some of its most influential filmmakers. EMILE COHL: (the screen's first great animator) disc includes Fantasmagoria (1908), The Puppets Nightmare (1908), The Living Fan (1909), Comic Mutations (1909), The Tweleve Labors of Hercules (1910), Petit Faust (1910), Bebes Masterpiece (1910) and many more. JEAN DURAND (who specialized in madcap comedy and American-style westerns) disc includes: Calino Wants to Be a Cowboy (1911), Onesime Goes To Hell (1912), Onesime, Clockmaker (1912), Onesime Loves Animals (1913), Zigoto Drives a Locomotive (1912), The Railway of Death (1912), Burning Heart: An Indian Tale (1912), Under the Claw (1912) and more. Also includes bonus documentary short: Jean Durand 1882-1946 and a sampling of innovative color and sound films from the 1910s. JACQUES FEYDER (whose sophisticated comedies made him the french counterpart of Ernst Lubitch and Cecil B. DeMille) and THE EARLY MASTERS OF FRENCH CINEMA (all featured on this disc) includes: Heads... And The Women Who Use Them (1916, Feyder), The Barges (1911, George-Andre Lacroix), La Marseillaise (1912, Etienne Arnaud), Childs Play (1913, Henri Fescourt), Feet and Hands (1915, Gaston Ravel). OVER TEN HOURS OF MATERIAL!!!
Next week we look at the awesome that is Criterion’s Blu of BLOW OUT, 2 volumes of THE AVENGERS, Criterion Blu of FEAR & LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS, MOGULS & MOVIE STARS: HISTORY OF HOLLYWOOD, THE GIRL WHO LEAPT THROUGH TIME (Blu), THE TERROR Blu, MACHINE GIRL Blu, EL TOPO Blu, THE HOLY MOUNTAIN Blu, SIN CITY Blu, DEMENTIA 13 Blu, THE DORM THAT DRIPPED BLOOD Blu, DINOSHARK, DAYLIGHT Blu, BOB DYLAN: DON’T LOOK BACK Blu, THE SCENT OF GREEN PAPAYA Blu, INVITATION TO THE DANCE, POOR PRETTY EDDIE Blu, MONGOLIAN DEATH WORM, NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN Blu, GANGS OF NEW YORK Blu, BETTY BLUE Blu, WRINKLE IN TIME, THE QUEEN Blu, ADUA & HER FRIENDS, CHAWZ Blu, INFERNO Blu, SLING BLADE Blu, CLERKS Blu, CHASING AMY Blu, JAY & SILENT BOB STRIKE BACK Blu, IRON MONKEY Blu, MUAY THAI GIANT Blu and that’s about it! Till then, happy viewings…
Readers Talkback
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Here's today's DVD Picks & Peeks column for all you Twitter followers...
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Ip man rocks
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every time he writes "giggle".
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April 19, 2011, 2:46 p.m. CST
Got it. The King's Speech isn't great because the lead character was brought up differently than Harry was.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
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Newsflash: Injuries and ailments resulting from uncontrollably stuffing food in your cakehole do not count as handicaps.
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...as 'I.P.' Man, or as 'Ip' Man? That title always throws me.
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And I mean every episode.
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if you don't like a character because you think he's a douche... it is grounds for not LOVING a film.
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Quite clever of you. I'm down 89 lbs this year thus far, into my 200's. But the handicap was severe Stenosis of the Spine, which is not weight related. Kisses
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If you really have Mr. James Cameron's email address, hit the man up and please request for me a BluRay release of The Abyss: Special Edition. Thanks in advance.
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All that aside, Ed Harris is the man! I'll be renting The Way Back this week. It dosen't matter to me if the story was made up, most good stories are.
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April 19, 2011, 3:26 p.m. CST
"# if you don't like a character because you think he's a douche... it is grounds for not LOVING a film. Subject Content if you don't like a character because you think he's a douche... it is grounds for not LOVING a film."
by CHRISTIAN_BALE_TRASHED_MY_LIGHTS
SCOTT PILGRIM. A movie I will probably never watch again.
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I was going to write about Harry's writing but instead I'll just say Ernie Kovacs was the best. Also, it's pronounced "eep mahn", sith witch.
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April 19, 2011, 3:27 p.m. CST
"If you saw his fantastic WHEN THE LEVEES BROKE – this film is, even stronger."
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
rick perry--i give you exhibit A on the negative effects of teacher layoffs.
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The effects are so absurdly stylized and the acting so wooden that it's impossible to take any of it as more than a bad puppet show Of course Harry would like it.. If you're a fan of Japanese cinema...this ain't the film to be looking out for.
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can be atributed too obesity. Anytime you put that much weight on your spine, you will become susceptible to aligments like that.
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it's not a single fucking thing that Merchant Ivory would have pumped out 20 years ago. It's a 'fine' film, but the acting woefully OTT. And seriously, who gives a flying fuck about royals...like the British people would all be jellyfish (even THEN) without their so-called 'leadership'.. They would bloodsuckers then, and they still are.
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I don't know whether Harry or whoever will deem it worthy of an obituary, but it has just been reported on the BBC news site that Elisabeth Sladen, who played Sarah Jane in Doctor Who and the Sarah Jane adventures has passed away. I'm shocked, I really am. She may not mean much to those who aren't into Doctor Who, but she was always excellent in the role. Very shocked, and somewhat saddened.
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April 19, 2011, 3:31 p.m. CST
Mortal Kombat may not be a very good movie, but the soundtrack is fun.
by WriteForTheEdit
I dig the Utah Saints, Traci Lords and George Clinton tracks, most notably.
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April 19, 2011, 3:32 p.m. CST
Again, why recommend films YOU DON'T LIKE?
by SierraTangoFoxtrotUniform
Oh, that's right -- it's to fund your "labor of love". "if you don't like a character because you think he's a douche... it is grounds for not LOVING a film. " That's the most RIDICULOUS thing I've ever heard. So I guess Untergang (Downfall) is a bad movie because Hitler is...well... a "douche" (mature label, by the way). Bronson is about a pretty nasty guy but I suppose that's not a good movie either. The Dark Knight features the Joker who probably would qualify as a "douche". I didn't think it was possible for Harry's credibility to dip into the negatives but it just did.
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April 19, 2011, 3:33 p.m. CST
Stenosis of the Spine can be directly weight related
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
whomever told you otherwise was trying not to kick you while you were down. stenosis is generally more common in elder people whos bones and muscles and spine have run through their course. you hit yours much earlier due to your excessive weight. poor posture and being overweight are the most common causes of stenosis nothing but love for ya fat man but im calling it like it is.
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April 19, 2011, 3:33 p.m. CST
And "Ip Man" is so good, I'm worried that the sequel can't possibly live up to it.
by WriteForTheEdit
However, this review is awfully tempting.
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April 19, 2011, 3:38 p.m. CST
BTW, dropping 89 lbs. is something to be heartily applauded.
by WriteForTheEdit
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"nothing but love for ya fat man but im calling it like it is." Anonymously calling attention to an overweight person's physical health in a ridiculing fashion under the guise of being helpful is just being a cowardly asshole. I am just calling it like it is.
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April 19, 2011, 3:40 p.m. CST
"dropping 89 lbs. is something to be heartily applauded"
by SierraTangoFoxtrotUniform
Yeah, when it's done by will of the person, not because you HAVE to because of medical reasons. It isn't like Harry took it on himself to lose the weight; he was MADE to. Big difference.
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April 19, 2011, 3:41 p.m. CST
So did "Short Circuit 2" effectively end Fisher Stevens' acting career?
by WriteForTheEdit
Not that I've followed it closely, but whatever... Also, had he started banging Michelle Pfieffer before he made this film? Or after? Because if it was after, jesus, that guy has some mad playa skillz...
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April 19, 2011, 3:42 p.m. CST
"if you don't like a character because you think he's a douche... it is grounds for not LOVING a film."
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
True, Harold, but that wasn't your point. You didn't like him because he was a whining defeatist, something you say you haven't been in the fight against your problems. Instead of judging the movie, it became about how YOU respond to challenges.
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Fisher Stevens was great in a far-too-limited role on Lost.
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I think not. Nowhere in that post was I even remotely trying to be helpful. I was merely informing the TBers that Harry was being a little naive of the "disease" he has. It wasn't years of overload abusing his back or the many years confined to a wheelchair that brought this on, it was something more.
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Dude, I want your health to be A1...but that kind of fibbing is what got your ass so huge and your spine in the kind of shape it is... A simple google of Stenosis reveals plenty of reading which indicates you would not be in the condition you are if you had not spent so long being in psychological denial about the consequences of your eating habits. I don't agree with your use of this site as part of the marketing of shit films or agree with all of your tastes...but I wish you well. Fine, lie like a mutherfucker about other shit, but not to yourself about your health.
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Such a brilliant movie - yup, you're right, it is so revered, that in the late '70's and early '80's many English Secondary Comprehensives arranged screenings of the movie (mind you, they also organised screenings of Gregory's Girl, another British classic. And why hasn't that been released yet?). Oh, and I loved Casshern. Its not perfect, its bloody slow in places, but its "twist" hurts badly, and is a great kicker to a damn good story. Think I may well check out Goeman.
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Fuck all you people and your fake ass RIPs. I can't believe any one of them and then this happens.
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is not any kind of valid excuse either. Tell that to the millions with high cholesterol
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I figured no-one would believe me. I always try to tell the truth, just that I have to compete with twats that are trying to be "funny".
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Don't get me wrong; I like Fisher Stevens, think he's very talented. And that's why I was wondering if his "performance" in SC2 was the reason he never really took off. Of course, I thought Tim Robbins' work in "Howard The Duck" was the ultimate career-killer. Shows you what I know.
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I think not. Weren't you trying to help him understand? If you are informing without the intention of being helpful then why inform? If not, then ridicule comes to mind or elevating oneself by means of putting down others. Either way it still makes you an asshole.
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My main intent in my post was to tell Harry he is full of shit he can Lie to himself all he wants but I'll call him out when he lies to us. He insults the rest of us who have honest to god authentic diseases like diabetes and alcoholism.
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I absolutely loved this movie - one of my very favorites from last year's Fantastic Fest. Absolutely exhilarating and enthralling, and one of those rare sequels that's superior to the (exceptional) original. And Harry speaks the truth: you totally do not need to have seen the original to enjoy it. (I hadn't.) It completely works as a stand-alone film (a huge achievement for a sequel). And the punchline of the last scene? Totally killed me. This is a must-have movie. Utter, resplendent joy.
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April 19, 2011, 4:09 p.m. CST
Look, Harold isn't just about Hensworth's hammer, oh no!
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
headgeek666 Harry Knowles Now this is a nice 7 packages opened today! 2 minutes ago
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April 19, 2011, 4:16 p.m. CST
I EARNED my alcoholism, and I'm proud of it.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
If Harold had any honor, he'd continue gorging himself on stuffed-crust pizzas, chimichangas, chocolate-covered pork rinds, bacon dipped in strawberry syrup, deep-fried beer, Twinkie-crusted fried chicken, Fluff, Play-Doh, country-fried egg yolks, McDonald's Filet O' Fish sandwiches, pizza in a cup, corn dogs, bacon chipotle cheesesteak jalapeno poppers and Mountain Dew, dying a hero's death.
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April 19, 2011, 4:17 p.m. CST
Two thumbs, a segment of intestine, and a severed penis WAY UP for "Tokyo Gore Police!"
by WriteForTheEdit
Those crazy Japanese, gotta love them and their gonzo imaginations...
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April 19, 2011, 4:17 p.m. CST
All that said, Harold, I continue to look out for you as the would-be usurpers Beaks and Nordling plot to seize your website.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
And I'm keeping tabs on their sockpuppets kobe and "Devin Faraci," too.
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Please tell me those are real... and where I can get some. Seriously, if my stomach had a dick, it would be so hard right now.
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I apologize. I didn't know that you knew Harry personally--that you had access to his medical history and was privy to understanding and knowing all the motivations and root causes of any of his physical and psychological difficulties he deals with. That must be the case; otherwise, you would not be justified in judging someone whose bits and pieces of their life you pieced together from a website that was devoted to popular cinema. Also, I am sure you do not suffer from any delusions yourself--maybe of your own self inflated importance--or of your self appointed role as arbiter of truth in someone else's life.
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April 19, 2011, 4:23 p.m. CST
ingeld: I don't need to know Harold personally. I'm that fucking good.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
For instance, I can tell that you have daddy issues, and you're looking to ol' CHOPPY here to provide some stern, masculine guidance. Now go get daddy's bourbon.
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Is that what passes for a clever and funny retort? I think you are projecting a great deal in your critique. Search your feelings. You know it is true.
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Harry, wtf man. Its bad enough the poor grammar, the gay undertones in your writing and your massive ego spilling into all your reviews but at least review the movie, all I got from what you wrote is that the main character wasnt like you or....well I dont know what the fuck you were talking about. Please how about a real review. And for fuck sake stop talking about your "handicap" yeah it sucks that you were in a wheel chair but as far as I can tell you put yourself in that chair. I have epilepsy and take Keppra every fucking day for the rest of my life and work 60 hours a week, thats a fucking handicap. Seriously man, I wish you a speedy recovery but lay off all the gay undertones, I mean youre married for godsakes! and just review the damm movies without all the personal shit thrown in. People are just gonna get pissed off, as evidenced by this TB
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Chopped. But you knew that already
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April 19, 2011, 4:30 p.m. CST
benlinus: Thank you for putting it in perspective.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
I hope Harold has learned his lesson and moves on from this shit. He has to steel his spine for his upcoming battle against Beaks, Nordling and "Faraci."
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April 19, 2011, 4:31 p.m. CST
Truth about Harry's condition, losing weight, marketing shit on this site, and "film knowledge"
by levithegreat
As promised in the subject line: 1. I am sure Harry knows more about this condition than any of the people on this site. I know that many of you are referencing Google but word to the wise - Everything you see online (including stuff on google) is not true. Even the stuff that is true often does not paint a whole picture of a subject unless you spend hours doing what is know as "research" - learning by checking multiple information sources, cross checking facts, ect. I highly doubt any of you "experts" on his condition have done that and if so you really need to find something better to do with your time. 2. Someone said that is does not mean anything to lose weight due to a medical condition. First that whole take is bullshit. Tell that to all of the people who continue to smoke or drink long after their doctors tell them not to and they have severe medical conditions due to these vices. Second once you are to the point that you are in a wheelchair (due to weight or any other aliment) it makes it kinda hard to exercise and lose weight. Not saying it is impossible, just that you really don't have the experience with this to know what you are talking about. 3. To those who questioned Harry for promoting shit movies - his is his site. If you want to start a site that only promotes good movies or does no promoting maybe you should start your own site - as opposed to coming for some shit site you hate coming to and then bitching about it. 4. Lastly (and to a certain extent this applies to #3 above also). Fuck your film knowledge or whatever you pompous people say about not like The King's Speech while liking a A Serbian Film. I don't give a damn what critics say. See both and make your own judgement. Many critics wouldn't have the balls to say they liked that movie even if they did. Also you are missing the point entirely if you think one film is better than other due to critics or the pubic even. People like what they like. That is the great thing about movies and art in general. It is in the eye of the beholder. Hopefully you people are not so insecure that whether Harry does or does not like a movie effects what you like or what you think about yourself for not having the same opinion as him. Be a man, grow up, like what you want without worrying about what other people think, grow a set of balls, and quit bitching about everything.
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All I get from Harry is what he posts. You're right it's none of my business but when I come here for a Thor review and 3/4ths of it is snout Harry and his wonky eye, I hAve the right to judge him. From what I got from his review, thor is a magical cure all and after a few more screenings, harrys back should be good to go
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April 19, 2011, 4:34 p.m. CST
"Everything you see online (including stuff on google) is not true."
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
Particularly the writings of one Harold Throckmorton Knowles IV.
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I guess I understand that--if I don't really agree. Why, if you don't like his reviews, do you read them or even come to this site? Why are you wasting your time?
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I'm trying to help Harold. As clumsy, idiotic, awkward and grating as he can be, he's a good guy at heart. With a little CHOPPAH refinement, he can turn this site around and into a fucking juggernaut.
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The slim chance the scriptgirls titties will make an appearance. Plus the summer is near which means we *might* get a rare sighting of Alexandra DuPont and her witty wit.
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...than that horrible webseries with Jeri Ryan and Michael Jai White.
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Throckmorton? Really? Did you make that up? Cuz the next dog I get is gonna be named Throckmorton!
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Dont compare yourself Harry to the king of England, he had a speech impediment. You are just a fat fuck who needs to lose weight.
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Durrr.
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God help us, we need that.
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I too thought Scott was a douche.
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I thought I'd written Harry's review for Somewhere in my mind as I was watching it. Which speaks as much to my own mental deficiencies as his tastes. I imagined he would say that Somewhere was as close as he's ever been to having a preteen daughter. It's like a daughter simulator. I thought he'd mention the very real and winning charisma of Elle Fanning in the role. But he didn't. Color me surprised. I personally liked the feel of the film but also couldn't commit to the aimlessness. It's just all so inconsequential.
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It is by will alone I set my chop in motion. It is by the juice of Sapho that thoughts acquire speed, the fingers acquire stains, the stains become a warning. It is by will alone I set my chop in motion.
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was the worst film I saw the whole year. It was unfunny. oh, his roommate is aggressively homosexual... too funny... NOT....
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I am no impostor. Just having trouble getting on with the regular handle.
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But it took some time to grow on me. Scott's douchiness was getting in the way for a bit. I need to see it a second time. Loved all the video game stuff, that's for sure.
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April 19, 2011, 5:36 p.m. CST
Mortal Kombat is a hell of a lot of fun, and the Johnny Cage/Scorpion fight is AWESOME!
by The Krypton Kid
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"I'm trying to help Harold. As clumsy, idiotic, awkward and grating as he can be, he's a good guy at heart. With a little CHOPPAH refinement, he can turn this site around and into a fucking juggernaut." Oh, so how long have you idolized Henry Higgins?
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MY HAIR FAIRY?
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April 19, 2011, 5:43 p.m. CST
...either way, puts the "Pyg" in Pygmalion.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
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Didn't like to see someone dating two awesome girls at one time bc he's too much of a pussy to break it off with the rebound.
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April 19, 2011, 5:53 p.m. CST
Aren't some of next weeks releases already on blu??
by SobchakSecurity
I'm looking at: SIN CITY Blu, , NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN Blu, GANGS OF NEW YORK Blu,THE QUEEN Blu, SLING BLADE Blu, CLERKS Blu,
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I just got tired of the "Woe is me, I'm dating TWO hot girls, what shall I do?" schtick. But then the Thomas Jane cameo just about pushed me over into full on love for the flick. Just about.
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they should do poster design contests all the time. dumbassess....lazy dumbassess
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His heart wasn't fully in it, which makes him even more of a jerk. I think he had a "woe is me" mentality the entire movie. I mean, it starts out with a "woe is me, Envy broke up with me", then becomes a "woe is me, Mary Elizabeth Winstead doesn't like me" and turns into "Woe is me, how will I deal with Knives AND fight the evil exes?" I just wasn't very interested in that kind of character whatsoever. Everything else I enjoyed, just not that aspect of his character. But gelato is so delicious!
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funny harry should mention him. i remember back in the day there was a rumor tom was the captain's voice.
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April 19, 2011, 6:32 p.m. CST
Still can't believe Braindrain is posting here
by CHRISTIAN_BALE_TRASHED_MY_LIGHTS
no posts longer than two sentences, no real memorable comments, no friends. Hmm.
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Jack was a much more layered character who had a lot more going on than Scott Pilgrim did. When you met Jack, he was the reluctant hero, the person whom leadership was thrust upon, trying to do the best in every situation but often failing bc of his own weaknesses. You wanted to see him do good. Scott, on the other hand, is right off the bat presented to you as a douche. Jack's issues are much more compelling to watch compared to Scott's, whose were all tied up in getting dumped and then mistreating his next gf by cheating on her.
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April 19, 2011, 6:49 p.m. CST
Can't you guys disagree with Harry without the personal attacks?
by vorlonkosh
If you wouldn't say something to someone's face, then you shouldn't say it anonymously either. That's just cowardice. That being said, it seems to be a pretty weak selection of DVD reviews this week from my perspective. Oh well...
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You've gone to plaid.
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reviewing the "Night of The Generals" a few weeks ago? Pretty sure I saw that one was coming up...
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I guess Harry should be happy that you are helping so much in your mean spiriited but true posts. Perhaps with your help he could someday have a well known website dealing with popular film. Who knows he may even be able to make a living out of it and get to meet famous diretors, actors and film critics---with your help that is. By the way, how is your extremely successful film website doing?
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What you do, take a shit?
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the city of Houston welcomed the refugees with open arms, and some old bitch went on and on about how she hated it there. What an ungrateful skank, she is welcome to take her ass back there anytime. Unlike their neighbors nearby who drew shotguns on people walking into their Louisana town...the Houston mayor showed a lot of class. But again, this is a spike lee joint, so he's going to show the shitty side of things...
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Come on Jim, not much to ask is it?
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April 19, 2011, 8:33 p.m. CST
kwisatzhaderach: Probably being fixed and cleaned up like Aliens was, I imagine.
by Darth_Kong
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April 19, 2011, 8:33 p.m. CST
kwisatzhaderach: Oh yeah, MAY THE HAND OF GOD BE WITH US ALL.
by Darth_Kong
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April 19, 2011, 8:35 p.m. CST
That's right Harry, Prometheus toys are coming like this. Very soon...
by Darth_Kong
http://www.thehiveforum.com/forum/index.php/topic,8655.30.html
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April 19, 2011, 9:09 p.m. CST
Douche is a stupid word for tosspots. I don't understand why it is used so much. Its not even fun to say.
by Larrylongballs
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I am staring at my steel book Gangs of New York blu ray as we speak, and if I go down to Wal-Mart or Blockbuster I can find the Sin City and No Country steel book and/or standard case blu rays. Triple dipping....?
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The Miramax and Dimension libraries are being handled by someone else now (I believe Lionsgate), so they're re-releasing them under the new banner. Same features, transfers, and I think even the same artwork. Just with a Lionsgate logo at the bottom. <br><p> I think. Don't quote me on it. I'm a little behind on my chronicling of Weinstein ruin.
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April 19, 2011, 9:43 p.m. CST
All these miramax films coming out on blu next week
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
Are just reReleases from lions gate who signed a deal with miramax to distribute. They are opening the floodgates to their catalog but be wary of the new to blu titles. they have not been remastered. The $10 blus you will soon see are near VHS quality.
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Sorry, but Los Locos kick balls into outer space. Short Circuit 1 can't claim that.
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April 19, 2011, 10:50 p.m. CST
The 85 pounds Harry lost grew some consciousness and became talkbacker ingeld.
by SierraTangoFoxtrotUniform
Now Harry's lardbaby goes around to defend it's original host like a good little former parasite.
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LMAO
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April 19, 2011, 11:39 p.m. CST
I can't help but wonder if the size fetishists are the ones mainly renting 'Gulliver.'
by Kamaji
One thing that I found strange is the 'crush' community, where some guys have this strange obsession with being crushed underfoot...preferably a woman's foot. Supposedly, this instant feeling of pleasure a milli-second before instant death is something that some people are attracted to. Not my cup of tea. I'd rather be crushed between Joy Harmon's tanned bosom in 'Village of the Giants.' :P
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Getting links pointing to http://localhost/node instead of http://www.aintitcool.com/node
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April 19, 2011, 11:44 p.m. CST
'Everything you see online (including stuff on google) is not true. '
by quantize
You fucking idiot, obesity is mentioned in almost every reference Yes, self diagnosing on the internet is stupid...but some shit is plain true
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that's the best you got?
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April 20, 2011, 12:57 a.m. CST
does Gulliver (Jack Black) travel to the 3 worlds or just tiny town?
by HornyForHarry
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April 20, 2011, 2:39 a.m. CST
Mortal Kombat hasn't aged well, but it was awesome back in the day!
by WaveBoy
But i think a lot of that had to do with the kick ass soundtrack(Which i now loathe ;p) and seeing the MK character sprung to life in live action on the big screen. It was a fun flick, but my god...The fight scenes have aged terribly. The fight between Sub Zero and Lui Kang was laughably bad, which is just one example. But you gotta love Goro, That thing still scares me til this day...
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I actually didn't enjoy Tokyo Gore police....I found it quite boring actually and the gore was too over the top to the point where it looked ridiculously bad. It was like Power Rangers, with ultra anime sex gore.
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It's not like it was a work of art, but it was, ya know, entertaining enough. I can't remember how old I was when it came out, 14 maybe, but I liked it then and, while it doesn't hold up well over time, it still has its better qualities. I mean it has action, it features all the characters, it pretty much sticks to the premise of the game, it features all the character's signature moves and various and assorted other references. *Maybe* Christopher Lambert was a silly choice to play Raiden but I didn't really care. And you know, it really is probably the best of the video game movies made. It was FAR better than Street Fighter and Super Mario Bros. What VG movie made since hasn't been an utter embarassment?
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No you are not. I own the DVD and love the movie. Yes it is cheesy but it is one of my guilty pleasures.
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Really? Some of you keep bashing Harry in these comments, and I really don't get it. He likes film. He likes fans of film. And he has every right to give us his opinion of films on his own site. The bashing has become egregious. Let the guy entertain us with his input and forgive him if his opinions differ from yours. It is mean-spirited to harp on the guy for things he has never hurt you with. I don't always agree with his reviews, but I look forward to them every time, because he is so passionate about movies. A little slack, folks!
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Flying around with a green mullet and form-fitting tights......would you trust him with your children? What a perverted freak. That show was garbage.
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April 20, 2011, 6:42 a.m. CST
Also, there is one good thing about Gulliver's Travels
by goatherdingclownhunter
...and that is Emily Blunt.
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Intellectual property that is.
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Why the Harry hate? I appreciate his enthusiasm, his movie reviews and his perspective, even though I disagree with him often. I don't understand how he has personally offended so many of the TB'ers. Internet culture has made it easy to be callous and insulting.
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April 20, 2011, 7:07 a.m. CST
if any film is crying out to be released on Blu Ray...
by Righteous Brother
It has to be Clerks.
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I guess I would suggest watching this before you watch Machine Girl. I saw Machine Girl first, and thought it was an absurdist masterpiece. I reached a level of Japanese insanity that even Jap porn rarely reaches. And it worked. Tokyo Gore Police, which I watched second, just didn't do it for me the same way. There were moments of craziness, but it was way too restrained, not in reference to pretty much anything you are going to see, just in reference to Machine Girl. If you can't afford unlimited DVD's and Blu's, wait for Machine Girl next week.
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April 20, 2011, 7:37 a.m. CST
'Everything you see online (including stuff on google) is not true. ' / quantize
by levithegreat
You have just proven a point by saying "obesity is mentioned in ALMOST every reference". More than likely most of these references are by people who don't know what they are talking about but some may even be by doctors. Who gives a fuck? These are generalizations (hence the almost in your statement). Once again Harry has spent more time on this then you ever will. He has probably talked to several doctors about it - who are familiar with the particulars in HIS case (not google trained - actually trained in a medical school). I think I will take Harry's and his doctors information over some internet troll just trying to cause problems for people to make himself feel bigger or tougher. The only other option is that Harry is lying and since there is no reason to believe that I will take him at his word. As far as the many sources you have apparently checked, again if this is true, and you truly looked up several references just to put someone who's site you got to down, you are pathetic. You should find a better hobby such as a girlfriend or guy friend (depending on your sex and your orientation). Or a job. Or make your own site so everyone can come to it and trash you. Is that the best I got? What are you 5? I originally figured you for at least 16 just insecure about yourself. Just one of those people who make themselves feel taller by cutting other people down at the knees. But if you are trying to win some pointless argument with a random stranger on the internet about a subject that don't even pertain to you anyway? Have at it. When you grow up a little you may feel differently unless you still have not developed any sense of self worth or self esteem.
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April 20, 2011, 7:39 a.m. CST
I LIKED IP MAN 2 FINE, BUT IT DOESN'T HOLD A CANDLE TO THE FIRST ONE
by BringingSexyBack
I'm not knocking it at all. Donnie Yen and Sammo Hung are always welcome on my TV. But the first one felt more like a real historical account of Ip Man's early life and the cruel Japanese occupation, whereas the second felt closer to your average rival kung fu schools chop socky flick. Not saying it IS, but that's what I'm reminded of. If you haven't seen the first, you'd be remiss. It's pretty epic.
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Can't agree with Harry about this one. I don't think that portraying the King accurately in a non-fiction film can really be seen as a problem. The problem with biographies is when they ignore the negative aspects of the protagonist's personality. I thought this was a stunning, moving film, certainly deserving of an Oscar nod. I agree that it wasn't may favorite film of the year, but I wasn't overly disappointed when it won, because it was a fine film. Still, in a year with Toy Story 3, Black Swan, and True Grit, I felt a little, just a little, disappointed in its win.
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I thought there was some debate surrounding the claim of it being a "true" story? Even the cover admits that it was "inspired by real events" rather than being a true story. Sloppy.
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I'm sorry but people are pointing out that although Harry has made some slight improvement, he is still in denial as to why he became that way. He is not some frail octogenarian with osteoporosis who becomes afflicted with stenosis of the spine. He IS in fact a morbidly fat man who has been extremely overweight for the past decade and confined to a wheelchair because his spine and legs could take no more. All the while, he is telling himself this predicament he is in is not his fault and that it will get better. but in fact it is brought on by apathy and massive amounts of overeating. which is fine if you want to live your life like that. Just own up to it. Grab 10 (un-google trained) doctors and give them a patient and they will all come up with a slightly different diagnosis. The general consensus of stenosis of the spine is that is can be caused (in younger patients) by obesity and weight related issues.
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Let's try something novel here, and talk about the movies and reviews, huh? Keep your armchair diagnosis' and hate speech to yourself.
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but if we come here for the reviews and film talk but the main component is a lying sack of fat who can't even be honest with himself let alone his readers, where does it all end? if hes lying about that, can i take his hyperbolic reviews as credible? His credibility has been dwindling for a while now and for him to arbitrarily lay claims that hes not fat and his "disease" is hereditary or some other mojo, it, along with everything else, here is becoming a tired joke. and preemptively retort to the snots that ask why i come here if it "sucks so much", i come because there are some daily features i do enjoy, as well as contributions from massa (i promise i will buy you a roofy colada one day!) quint and the all too rare sightings of ScoreKeeper.
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Pretty much despised the movie and the titular character up to that point. One of the rare cases when an ending can pull a whole film together and truly make it all mean something truly special. Love it when that happens!
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Just popping in to pay my respects to Elisabeth Sladen. Keep On Choppin'.
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April 20, 2011, 9:24 a.m. CST
Hey, look! The regular handle works fine! (for the moment)
by THE_CHOPPAH
Allow me to take this moment to thank one Harold Throckmorton Knowles IV for allowing this to happen. (for the moment)
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April 20, 2011, 9:28 a.m. CST
The King's Speech is one of those films that I feel I should eventually see, but I'm really not looking forward to it
by Stabby
Probably will put it off for a few years. And I love Geoffrey Rush! Maybe I'll finally watch The Tailor of Panama instead.
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April 20, 2011, 9:31 a.m. CST
Harold Throckmorton Drumthwacket Knowles IV: I put it to you!
by THE_CHOPPAH
Do you accept the CHOPPAH's challenge to vanquish the maniacal and malicious menage a trois, Beaks, Nordling and "Faraci"? It is your Blessed Vocation! Do not waver!
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It's Sofia not Sophia. As a fan of her work and a movie critic you should that. And for God sake it's also written on front of the Blu ray. How would you like it if someone said your name was Hally Knowbes?
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April 20, 2011, 9:39 a.m. CST
Harold is a Dutch gentleman, attired in high-fashion mufti of his dig
by THE_CHOPPAH
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Which came to it's fruition in the golden shower sequence between Kate Winslet and Harvey Keitel in Holy Smoke!.
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As someone who bills themselves as a professional and someone with the responsibility of huge exposure of their opinions, Harry is making his reviews not about the quality of the film, but about how his personal life experience compares to fictional characters on the screen. We are all a sum of our experiences, but isn't film review supposed to be unbiased? This is the same fruitcake that made A Serbian Film his top ten list.
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April 20, 2011, 9:51 a.m. CST
Harry is a giant infant, in a way. The image he gives us at the top of this column illustratess it.
by THE_CHOPPAH
Puts his love of A SERBIAN FILM in a new perspective, no?
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no one really is paying serious attention to Harry's reviews are they, I find them very entertaining His taste is completely random, and some reviews (ala King's speech, Inception) are so unprofessional, there is no way you could take it seriously, just make fun of them and have a laugh
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and some people do have rape fantasies
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April 20, 2011, 10:02 a.m. CST
The only use of this column is to see what is new each week.
by Jeffrey
Anyone who uses Harry's juvenile reviews as a resource for film purchase is drinking the cool-aide.
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But, he does take film serious. It's also obvious that he doesn't take this web site very serious. But, this web site IS HARRY. It has all of his lovable traits along with all of his dysfunctional character flaws as well.
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April 20, 2011, 10:24 a.m. CST
BLOW OUT BLOW OUT BLOW OUT BLOW OUT BLOW OUT
by openthepodbaydoorshal
Last week I picked up The Incredibles on Blu, next week Blow Out... Ain't life grand.
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You realize your an asshole right? Knowing is half the battle. BTW, don't deny that your faulkner either, it's crystal clear you are. Good attempt at disguise.
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Los Lobos kick your face! Los Lobos kick your balls into outer space!
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April 20, 2011, 10:27 a.m. CST
BTW Sofia Coppola could not make a good film to save her life.
by jarjarmessiah
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April 20, 2011, 10:30 a.m. CST
Oh and one more thing Faulkner...oops sorry, I mean Ingled
by riggs_and_murtaghs_love_child
Your shameless kissing of Harry's ass is embarrassing. Please stop. Oh and you want to talk about someone who thinks they are important and is actually completely irrelevant? That would be you pal. Choppah is at least funny (sometimes) and is obviously just trying to have fun, whereas you are just a dick, all the time.
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...is very well made and the firsrt half hour or so is fantastic - but then it turns into a lazy remake of Rocky IV and it's downhill all the way. No wonder Yen has said no to a third part - he should've stepped in and stopped this turning from a factually based drama to Anti-British propaganda.
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April 20, 2011, 10:54 a.m. CST
Choppah wants to help Harry; it would be funny if Harry ever did hire The Choppah
by Stabby
America's unemployment rate would drop by a few percentage points!
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Could you put some more time and effort into defending Harry? It's really not obvious enough. And while you are at it (because you are a Harry fanboy) could you fill us in on Harry's personal life? Like: Is he married? Is his wife ethnic? What is his physical stature? The answer to these mysteries would SO make reading his reviews more insightful.
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I am not one of Harry's sycophantic defenders like ingeld/faulkner. But, I do like the guy and obviously I enjoy his web site or I wouldn't be here. Actually, the Talkbacks have always been my favorite part of AICN and mainly why I come here. To clarify my position, I think it is totally viable for people to discuss Harry's personal life in the Talkbacks since he makes it so much a part of his reviews and the site in general. And I think Harry knows this and is cool with it. It is his fellow moderators of the site and their various sock puppets who make it an issue and wield the almighty Banhammer willy-nilly.
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Listen, CHOPlings, to he of the sharpest, most cutting wit!
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April 20, 2011, 11:45 a.m. CST
Short Circuit 2 and Mortal Kombat are Exhibits A and B...
by darthderp
of why I feel not every movie needs the Blu-Ray treatment. It's like widescreen and 3D; some movies just aren't worth the extra frills, IMO (and I'm sure it's strictly my opinion, by the way). Just a gimmick to make more money, and I'm sure there are those willing to pay. I just think it's a waste of money for a couple of sub-par films.
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April 20, 2011, 11:46 a.m. CST
Next Thursday, incidentally, is Take Your CHOPPAH To Work Day.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
Don't be surprised if the markets plunge, a few ICBMs are launched and Taco Bell introduces a new kind of quesadilla.
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April 20, 2011, 11:50 a.m. CST
movienut401: Widescreen is no "extra frill."
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
If a movie's shot in widescreen it should be shown in widescreen, whether it's Short Circuit 2 or Doctor Zhivago. If anything, fullscreen presentation is an extra frill because of the work that goes into making it more palatable to those dullards who simply can't take those bars on the top and bottom of their screen.
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Forget the new quesadilla; see if you can get them to start testing that Dorito taco in the New England area. COOL RANCH FTW!!
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Then in you opinion, this is just Harry's blog, right? Then it should not be taken as a serious media site that takes advertising $ and asks its readers to spend money purchasing movies from Amazon to profit Harry.
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They don't even make 4:3 tv's any more, do they? 4:3 would be a special case now.
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I like it has a nice ring to it..... Harry is finally kicked to the curb by Yoko after she discovers his hidden stash of Beefcake magazines. Harry then heads for new york to try and rediscover his "inner geek" again while coming to terms with his blossoming bi-sexuality. Its at a poetry reading at Joes Pub of Ginsbergs "Howl" where Harry runs into "The Choppah" a wildly unpredictable former sports writer for the San Diego Tribune. The 2 of them bond over fuzzy navels and a mutal love of all things Andrei Tarkovsky as well as a fondness for Ed Wood movies. They decide to throw caution to the wind and move into a cramped studio apartment on East 5th Street between Avenue A and Avenue B and "Take Manhattan" by storm! Choppah while trying to rejuvinate his sportswriting carrer helps Harry to lose 85 lbs via the Power 90X workout. Harry is hard at work revamping the AICN website as well as famousmonsters.com. Everything is going great! The only question is: "Can two geeks possibly share an apartment without driving each other crazy!" (cue Odd Couple theme)..... Im thinking a beared Louie Anderson for Harry and maybe a David Soul type for Choppah but EVIL David Soul ala Magnum Force.... Thoughts?
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I see your point; I just always viewed it as the other way around, mainly because my first intro to widescreen was when Innerspace came out on home video. Every other movie my family rented until then was fullscreen, hence, I thought that was the norm. Full disclosure: I personally am fine either way, but there are some movies that it's widescreen for me, or nothing.
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April 20, 2011, 12:16 p.m. CST
I always thought of myself more as an evil Tim Matheson from Magnum Force, benlinus, but David Soul works.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
As long as I get to put-put around in that ridiculous Citroen Soul drove in Tobe Hooper's Salem's Lot miniseries.
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You are most gracious, and, for this, CHOPPAH grants you clemency. Consider yourself un-CHOPPED.
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April 20, 2011, 12:19 p.m. CST
...in fact, you get one Get Out Of Chop Free card for the future.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
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My movienuts and I thank you.
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Tim Hetherington (Restrepo) killed in Libya.....
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April 20, 2011, 12:35 p.m. CST
First Elisabeth Sladen (that one sucked to hear) then Hetherington...
by darthderp
Dreading hearing who number 3 is....
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April 20, 2011, 12:36 p.m. CST
movienut401: It may turn out to be Abe Vigoda's time.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
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April 20, 2011, 12:44 p.m. CST
Chopp: Vigoda could off himself on live TV and NOBODY would believe it at this point
by darthderp
How many times has that man been declared dead, through news and/or rumors? Say one thing though; when he does go, it ought to be one hell of a tribute!
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I commend Harry for having an incredibly thick skin. He puts up with an amazing amount of shit from the rabble on here, usually with good humor. One has to really cross a line on here to get banned. Try pulling some of the same shit on 99% of other sites and the ban hammer will fall very rapidly. And for the love of god people. Learn the difference between too, to and two.
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was Campion's film prior to The Piano.
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April 20, 2011, 1 p.m. CST
toiletbrush, there are a lot of stupid blogs that make a lot more money than this site
by Stabby
Huffington Post is just a series of blogs and links to other news sources and AOL paid $315 million for it. And as bad as it is here, AICN Talkbacks are WAY BETTER than the HuffPost message boards. Try tracking a conversation thread when you gotta keep backing up to load previous pages.
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F' You, Ginger Fatass!
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April 20, 2011, 1:24 p.m. CST
"Talkbacks are WAY BETTER than the HuffPost message boards"
by FlickaPoo
Politically, I'm a lefty, but HuffPost talkback is insufferable. Sample wit... [article about the Justin Bobblehead documentary movie] "sounds terrible, just like Republicans." [article about a man accidentally decapitated by a loose lawnmower blade] "no head = no brains...must be a Republican." [article about supposedly aphrodisiac foods] "this food is good for Republicans, because they can't get anybody to love them."
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April 20, 2011, 1:24 p.m. CST
Look, Harry's only ASKING us to purchase thru the site; he's not holding a gun to our heads...
by darthderp
...or threatening to sit on us or something. The site has blossomed to the point where I'm sure it costs a pretty penny to keep online, and if this is how he has to help pay the bill, that's how it is. If you don't want to shop through the amazon links, then don't. I'd say quit the bitching, but trying to get certain people to quit that would be like trying to divide by zero; impossible.
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April 20, 2011, 1:34 p.m. CST
apologists, ass kissers, enablers, socks and sociopaths
by Hey_Kobe_Tell_Me_How_My_Ass_Tastes
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April 20, 2011, 1:48 p.m. CST
Flicka, it sounds about as great as the message board for Fox News
by D.Vader
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April 20, 2011, 1:55 p.m. CST
Faraci and Nordling's prime sock puppet is here!
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
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April 20, 2011, 1:58 p.m. CST
Oh, and he's Beaks', too. Can't leave out Beaks.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
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The worst thing about HuffPo talkback is the sanctimony and lack of wit. Your average AICN troll has five times the self awareness and ten times the clever.
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Same reason I watch Glenn Beck from time to time. Its always important to know what the enemy is thinking and how they act, what kinds of scenarios they are giving their base. It also gives you a leg up when you understand just how crazy people can be.
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April 20, 2011, 2:10 p.m. CST
George Carlin said it best; there are three classifications for people
by darthderp
Stupid, full of shit, and fucking nuts. And yes, it is possible to be all three. Myself? Depends on the day's events....
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Subtitles_Off kinda sounds like a HuffPo talkbacker sometimes.
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I never watch a full episode of Beck. I tend to get a bit sick 15-20 minutes in.
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Glad to see a few of us can be supportive of the big guy. It seems all too often that TBers who hate Harry, his reviews, his personal life and his website spend WAY too much time here. Face it, Harry and AICN are not going away. And that makes me happy. I just hope that people that are trying so badly to heap negatives on this site are trying to do something positive for film somewhere else. Harry is being generous with his time and efforts. I've followed this site for ten years and the hate and bile has gotten out of hand since then. I used to like the Talk Backs. Sometimes I still do. But to completely bash the guy that created/runs the site? What do certain TBers expect? That Harry will quit? That he will abdicate his throne? Leave it alone, guys. AICN is here for us. All of us. And we like it.
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I had a post deleted for saying that Chaz Bono looked like Chris Christie. I can totally see their tiny minds at work torn because on the one hand the poster is mocking a Republican but on the other hand they are also making fun of a transgender icon. In the HuffPost worldview alternate lifestyle and pansexuality always trump everything else.
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Thanks!
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And I missed it. Oh well, not like there is a shortage of silly childish assholes in the TB's, he is just in the upper ranks of that group, he is special, him and his limited vocabulary, child like mentality, and his love of having basketball players licking his ass. Oh and don't forget "the line". Classic stuff.
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April 20, 2011, 3:01 p.m. CST
Oh shit. Chris Christie DOES look like Chaz Bono.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
Stabsolutely Stabulous, as always.
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There. I said it since no one else will. She has made one good film - "The Virgin Suicides". "Lost in Translation" was overrated junk. And Harry's claim that the new film has no resolution - well it all started right here, folks. Two hours of Bill Murray mumbling and then its over. Ridiculously bad film. "Marie Antoinette"? - Total piece of shit. "Somewhere"? - Won't even watch it. When are critics going to stop fawning over this talentless bitch?
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April 20, 2011, 3:34 p.m. CST
Ip Mans props means ill be putting of The Kings Speech for about the 11th time
by Darkocity
next chance for a movie viewing I get. Mortal Kombat - it shames me to say - i loved that film at the time as a Mortal Kombat fan... Paul W Anderson will never remove the stigma that is taking the Aliens Vs Predator concept and churning out what he did (a complete waste and a load of bullshit), but on nostalgic memory alone, and not having seen it recently, Mortal Kombat still gets a pass!
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Faulkner? Who are you talking about? I come on this site once every few months to see what's up. I am not one of your little nemisis in your all so fascinating and important flame wars. Believe it or don't believe it. See if I care. Call me a parasite or an asskisser for defending someone against rudeness. So what? The truth is obvious, and the truth is if you use the anonymity provided by a web site to say things to people you would never say to their face then you are just a rude, boorish coward. This describes 99% of the TBrs who think somehow they are providing a service to Harry by engaging in ad hominems. Sad, really.
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for not awarding Firth for A Single Man--probably because of the subject matter, and the first time director.
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Ip Man 2 was worthless shit. I can't fathom why Harry dug it unless he was drunk or getting paid to shill this sad, soulless movie. Mind you, this is coming from someone who loved the original. This sequel is a pathetic Rocky IV knock-off, right down to Ip Man having to come out of retirement to fight the hulking caucasian monster who calls his countrymen weak in the press and who killed his friend in the ring. Only see it if your idea of great martial arts is seeing an old, fat-ass Sammo Hung "balance" on chairs with the help of more wires than the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade. Skip this turd and the even-shittier "Legend of the Fist".
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I appreciate your comments. I agree that the site is not what it has been or what it could be. There is a hell of a lot more competition in the movie website sphere now and that tends to water down the results. But I just want to say that picking on Harry or his website is not going to make the site any different or "better". He has stuck with his methods and formats. If he has been selling out- well, that's his issue if he is. I like coming to AICN as well as /Film, Joblo, etc. as well, but this is where I started and I will continue to support the site. No amount of complaining or rude insults (not referring to you) will shut down AICN or stop Harry from doing the things he wants to. Mostly, I wish people would stop attacking the man on a personal level. The weight, health issues, etc. I am glad to be healthy, and I am happy that he is making strides in that direction. So maybe while strides need to be taken in an effort to improve the site, I think that anger and meanness do not need to be a part of it.
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What exactly makes Sofia Coppola a bitch? I disagree that she's untalented - I think all four of her films are highly worthwhile. But why is she a bitch? Because she's a woman and you can't get laid, therefore all women are bitches?
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April 20, 2011, 6:59 p.m. CST
Sofia Coppola gets a lifetime pass For the opening of lost in translation.
by THE_CHOPPAH_STRIKES_BACK
Her dad just got bested for greatest film opening ever.
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he's lost 89 lbs and is now in the 200's range...congrats...gastric bypass is a miracle for rich fat people
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Choppa - I agree that the most common reason may be obesity. That does not mean it was in Harry's case. maybe it was. maybe it wasn't. To be honest I don't really give a damn either way. Thats his business. But I will take him at his word. If he says it is not than I for one believe him. He don't have anything to prove to me or anyone else on this board anyway. As far as his reviews go. I wish everyone would shut the hell up about review integrity or credibility. ALL REVIEWS ARE SUBJECTIVE. ALL REVIEWS ARE BIASED. it is not possible to review a film without subjectivity or bias unless you are just reviewing for correct spelling or pronunciation. I like reading the reviews just to get a different take on films. It does not influence me as to what I want to see or what I think about a movie, a lot of times I don't agree with them, but that is what is great. I don't have to agree with everyone. We could have an intelligent conversation on what we do or don't like about a movie but instead it all just falls down into a big name calling loser fest (although that happens everywhere on the net because people finally have the balls to say stuff they wouldn't normally to people's faces so they let of some pent up aggression from being to cowardly to speak their minds in their "real" "life".).
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But I would gladly give it all up if I was given the promise that I would never again have to sit through the boring, pretentious, and overrated work of one Sofia Coppola. And anyone who says that she does anything better than her father should be banned from ever watching movies again. His worst film is better than her best.
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what a sad and sorry lot.
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Ha ha ha....very funny...but give it up. Flame wars? I'm not getting in a flame war with someone who isn't even equipped for one. You come to this site "every couple of months"? Really? Then how is it you know about Choppah's BLOG...not movie website, just a BLOG? How is it that you know enough about it to make sarcastic comments about it? You are so ridiculously transparent it's pathetic. But you go and keep up the charade, it's obviously something your therapist recommended you to do so you can work out your issues.
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I see Choppa and Yellow seem to have their panties in a bunch over Harry's opinions. Hey, it's his site. What did you expect? Nothing better to do guys? Run out of kleenex to whack off to, so you're trollin away here instead of the GP? Thanks for makin me slog past your pointless shit just so I can read stuff from people with actual brains. That said, I agree Harry. Ip Man 2 is spectacular. More straightforward than the first, but Sammo Hung is amazing in this, and it's worth watching it for him alone.
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It has more human moments, an awesome revenge finale, and it's basically the 1st one for adults. I like the first one, but I love the 2nd one.
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April 21, 2011, 5:11 p.m. CST
Mortal Kombat is an excellent popcorn movie and the best videogame movie adaptation.FACT.
by KilliK
but stay the fuck away from the sequel and the series.
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... if you love the work of director "Sophia Coppola" so much, you'd probably know that it's spelled "Sofia".</p><p> SHORT CIRCUIT 2 didn't kill Fisher Stevens's career. Fisher Stevens, being dumped by Michelle Pfeiffer and appearing as the bad guy in HACKERS killed Fisher Stevens's career.</p><p> Harry is actually tackling a debilitating handicap that I think all of us here are familiar with: the inability to write a cohesive sentence. Hey, I get all gooey when I write about how my dad took me backstage at a ZZ Top concert when I was six and let me jam with Billy Gibbons or how I was shooting ske-ball with my good friend Peter Jackson the other day, too, but I also know when it's time to stick a period on the end of that bad boy and call it a day. I'm not sure the "nesting doll" approach of sentence writing - in which you keep adding dashes to draw a sentence on into infinity - well, it's just not working. For God's sake, man, you're the head writer on a very well-known Web site and your reviews get quoted on movie posters. At least get a starving English major to tutor you in the basics of sentence structure or something! Even Dokken had a vocal coach!
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AICN probably hasnt mentioned this event in their news although it premiered one week ago. Anyway you can see the 1st episode here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6s6UiEuCYXA&feature=player_embedded and in that page you will find the 2nd episode which was aired a few days ago. rumor says that if the web-series is successful we migh get a new MK movie.fingers crossed.
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April 21, 2011, 5:17 p.m. CST
Harry if you read this please post in the news about the new MK webseries
by KilliK
if enough people watch it,there is a chance we might get a new MK movie.please do it for us the fans.
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That's too funny. Now I know how conspiracy theories get started. Some bit of coincidence and an assumption here or there. I have no idea about Choppha's blog. Frankly, I am not sure what is a choppa. The funniest thing that I can think of is you sitting there, utterly convinced that I am someone who I am not. The irony is great--asserting that you are not gullible and by doing so proving how much you are. Wonderful. I live for irony. By the way, i used to be tailender--going way back when LOTRs first came out. I had a different name then. It wasn't Faulkner--that's for sure.
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April 21, 2011, 7:16 p.m. CST
Harry, I just wanted to say that your witnessing is kind of astonishing
by CHRISTIAN_BALE_TRASHED_MY_LIGHTS
It really is.
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It's pleasant enough to watch. The direction is very strong and creative. Actually maybe it's not overrated, but was overhyped. I checked out The Way Out this week. It's definitely worth seeing if you're in to that sort of thing. The acting is pretty strong all around. Colin Ferrel has a great character to work with, and he does a superb job. It kind of drags a bit in parts but just when you start thinking about ejecting the disc something exciting and surprising happens. Except at the very end. Then it does drag. But I enjoyed it.
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Whatever dude, now you are feigning ignorance. You said, in THIS tb, to Choppah..... "How is your highly successful movie site doing" Go ahead, deny that you said that. Now your saying you know nothing about it or him, after directly addressing Choppah and asking him about his website. Need a reminder? Apr 19, 2011 7:19:20 PM CDT Choppah by ingeld I guess Harry should be happy that you are helping so much in your mean spiriited but true posts. Perhaps with your help he could someday have a well known website dealing with popular film. Who knows he may even be able to make a living out of it and get to meet famous diretors, actors and film critics---with your help that is. By the way, how is your extremely successful film website doing? Reply to Talkback But you don't know "what a choppa is" or anything about his blog/website? Right? Get a life will you. You are outed.
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Ha, ha, ha! That was meant as sarcasm--an attempt to point out his inability to ridicule because of my belief that he is in no way a peer to Harry. As if you or someone criticized Lucas for a SW film and I responded, "Oh, yeah, how's your successful film franchise doing?" You have read into that what you want to believe. That is so rich. Probably, the only person laughing harder at all of this is this Faulkner dude.
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but i a gree it wasnt good enough for awards. acting awards for colin firth definently, but comparing it to the brilliance of the social network is a crime. i mean the kings speech was enjoyable, but it was really cliche and not really that rememberable (besides colin firth). i just dont see what the big deal was
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April 22, 2011, 8:21 a.m. CST
ingeld-falkner-mr. beaks, why was the original the_choppah banned?!
by THAT_SAID_THE_CHOPPAH
Don't you know that by banning him you just make him more powerful, just like Obi Wan Kenobi?
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April 22, 2011, 10:27 a.m. CST
smack_teddy/darkocity got banned, for calling Ambush Bug a hack and moron
by alexander
which he totally was this month, for his bullshit half arsed assessment of Holy Mountain, and his subsequent response that if you wouldn't go through the mind numbing process of negotiating with the utter idiocy of it, via a proper discussion over the film in turn i.e doing his job for him, then you obviously weren't worthy of capable of assessing the film and his comments... ....it was that and the rudeness of the tone that got the ban and comments removed i believe... what can you say?: it seemed relative to Ambush's...
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...ahem....
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For what? Being truthful? Fuck that shit.
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April 22, 2011, 1:47 p.m. CST
Believe me, I'd prefer not to. I may be synthetic, but I'm not stupid
by Nick
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Read up on it-- the sad truth is that it's likely a fabricated story. And that eviscerated the movie's impact for me. It was actually a decent film, but its great first 2 acts couldn't sustain it. The last act was uneven, and it kept going on and on... not Weir's finest hour.
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*SPOILERS* Yes, it may only be "hope", but damn if I didn't see it coming at all. Guy decides to NOT cheat on his wife, wife has worked through the beginnings of forgiving the boy who killed her son, her mother, her sister, her husband and herself, and they decide to give life another try together. Yes, the movie is heavy, but I LOVE the way the final 1/4 of the movie and the ending play out.
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...that more people hate the farther away from it we get. Personally, I still love it. It works for me on an emotional level. *shrug*
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I think its great that we're still discussing the batch of films that were nominated this year and that most people don't agree on which film should have won. Means we had a pretty decent years worth of films. <p> Harry's reviews, love 'em or hate 'em, have been all kinds of, errrr, unique? Idiosyncratic? Not sure what exactly, but they've been that way for a VERY long time. Maybe from the very beginning, although I personally think they've gone a bit more "out there" over the last few years. Regardless, my point is that people ought to know what they're getting themselves into by now. Repeatedly bashing every review the guy writes makes your opinion pretty worthless. Wait until he writes a real wacky love letter to a film that most people hate, or he hates a film that most people love and THEN bash him. lol Nah, I jest. But my point stands. The constant bashing of Harry's reviews is old at this point. I just skip over all those comments 99% of the time.
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braindrain is sticking up for me!?
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Harry is never less than enthusiastic and passionate about what he covers, you have to give him that; i guess you either appreciate his review form and style on this level, or it grates after a while. Harry: your body is a microchip! What does Harry's note for IP Man say? It says "Great Job!" I'll bet he would totally tap April Ludgate, even with her Sour Face though, so longs as Yoko let him.
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Gulliver's Travels sounds like a winner
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I honestly assumed it got shelved or something until this article
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MK did an 'OK' job with the source material. Let's face it, Mortal Kombat isn't exactly the Iliad. The 'gritty, more serious' approach being taken with Jeri Ryan is something you'll either love immensely or hate intensely, and they had to really jack the backstory to make it happen. Short Circuit 2 is just plain fun. I'm sorry if you can't appreciate it for what it is... a comedy/adventure with a wiseass robot. And if you didn't get just a little choked up when the baddies tore Johnny Five up during the 3rd act, you have no soul. Come on, they even played Holding Out for a Hero during J5's vengeful pursuit of Oscar - that's ten times better than a game of chicken played with farm tractors.
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April 23, 2011, 9:55 p.m. CST
but its not ten times better than joyously celebrating violently beating the shit out of 'Sherbyville' kid rivals through the youthful expression and medium of Dance!
by alexander
... just kidding though, i have much love for Short Circuit 2 also.
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Black cinema had a much better voice with the Spike Lee Joint than TP Presents. There's no comparing Do the Right Thing and those preachy, religious drag queen flicks. Check out my teaser: http://www.indiegogo.com/Dirge
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very good web,believe you will love it. FREE SHIPPING,accept paypal discount evisu jeans,watches shirts,bags,hat and the decorations trust me! Quickly snapping up right
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Nowt to touch it.
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The main problem I had with goemon would be the direction of the story as it started out somewhat lighthearted (akin to say, Pirates of the carribean in which Goemon comes off as some robin hoodesque character.) only to progress to some metaphoric dark and brooding film. (The child being thrown in a pit of fire was more than enough to convince me that this aint your family friendly type of movie.) Great action and set pieces however, I can recommend a rental and not a purchase. Mortal Kombat was PWSA's decent effort second to Event horizon (a very underated film, and this is coming from a guy that doesnt think highly of weasel shit anderson.) unfortunately, if you're a fan of the game series, you might be disapointed due to the lack of "fatalities" and the stupid cliche quotes: "flawless victory". the soundtrack is cool from the techno intro to Metal band GZR's invisible song. Overall this film beats out those attrocious film adaptations of Street Fighter. Good for you Paul, now if you could back the fuck away from Resident Evil since you have done more than enough damage to the series. IP man2 is the best pick of the weekand speaking of which, Legend of the Fist is one of Yen's best films ever. Fuck, it was the ultimate homage to bruce Lee's Kato unlike that seth rogen shitfest. the first 6 minutes of the film in which Zhen takes on a bunch of japanese soldiers Captain America style, would make Director Joe Johnson envious. Yen is the fucking man, Bitches!
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There is a God after all. To quote Pesci's character Tommy from Goodfellas: "I thought he'd never shut the fuck up". What a cuntrag.
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April 26, 2011, 8:47 a.m. CST
dirty ape, if you were being sent free blu-rays would you give up that gig?
by THAT_SAID_THE_CHOPPAH
I would write the column for free just for that alone.
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Wiping himself!
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you really need to learn the difference between "emphatic" and "empathetic"
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