In Character: Dennis Hopper

Dennis Hopper’s film and television career spanned nearly six decades, in which he delivered more than 200 roles. From loyal sons to crazed photojournalists, easy riders to drunk fathers – there was never a role too dark, or an area of the psyche left unexplored. A pioneering Method actor who trained under Lee Strasberg, Hopper was known for fully immersing himself into his work, which often caused problems, but consistently generated amazing performances. There were many roles to choose from for this post, but I do hope you enjoy my picks. As always, feel free to share your favorite Hopper roles as well.

Top 97 Things I Love About The Thin Red Line (that no one talks about) Part 2

A few days ago, I highlighted several things I love about Terrence Malick’s The Thin Red Line that I feel are rarely (if ever) discussed. Here’s the second part of the post, which will, to be clear, spoil all major plot points of the movie. So please see the movie first before reading this post. This is too good a film to have ruined in print. 

Catch up by checking out Part 1 of this post here.

Top 97 Things I Love About The Thin Red Line (that no one talks about) Part 1

Terrence Malick’s The Thin Red Line is the best war film I’ve ever seen. I’ve always considered it one of my favorite films of all time, and in watching it for this post, I couldn’t contain my praise. So, for the first time, I’m splitting one of my “That No One Talks About” lists into two parts. Part 1 today, Part 2 later this week. I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this film. And fair warning: I’m discussing The Thin Red Line in full here. If you haven’t seen it, I suggest doing so immediately, then, if you want, coming back and checking out these posts. Enjoy!

In Character: Marcia Gay Harden

It’s no secret that, unfortunately, the film business is notoriously unkind toward women. But amongst all the horror stories and latent misogyny, it’s always very affirming when a talent like Marcia Gay Harden is able to brave through and keep her insanely impressive career going. Harden caught her first big break when she was 31, and her second, even bigger career launch, exactly 10 years later. Since then, she’s remained one of our finest working actresses. Her filmography is stacked with excellent characters, women who make whatever they’re in, that much better.

Top 10 First Date Movies

One of the best parts about getting to know someone is showing them movies I love. But in the beginning, I’ve found that it’s important to be slightly cautious. On date two, for example, I wouldn’t suggest watching Cries and Whispers while you eat a nice dinner you’ve prepared (not that I’ve ever done that or anything). Instead, below are a handful of great films that, in my experience, are good at easing your way into the movie side of a relationship. Some are romantic, others are funny, and some are just plain fun. No matter the genre, whether you watch them on your first date or fifth, I’m confident that they’ll all go over well.

In Character: Frank Vincent

Frank Vincent is one of the premiere mafiosos currently in the film game. For nearly 35 years he’s brooded and beat his way all over contemporary classic cinema. With notable tough guy work in various Spike Lee Joints and Martin Scorsese Pictures, it’s impossible to look at Vincent and not be intimidated by him. I hope you enjoy my thoughts on Vincent’s career (and the embedded clips). When you’re done checking out the post, I expect you to go home and get your shine box.

Top 5 Uses of Marvin Gaye’s Music in Film

Yesterday was the great Marvin Gaye’s birthday, and I was reminded yet again that, for some very strange reason, there has never been a movie made about him. Gaye has been my favorite musician since I was 15. He lived such a beautiful and tortured life; his story is so naturally cinematic, it just begs to be given a worthy film treatment. So while we wait for a much deserved filmic version of Gaye’s life, here’s a look back at the films that have utilized his soulful sound the best.